Brandenburg Medical School: Statement on Academic Freedom

Neuruppin, 27 May 2025

The Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane (MHB) endorses the position taken by the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) and expresses solidarity with Harvard University (photo) and all other universities under political pressure for the autonomy and the values they represent.

We are seriously concerned about political measures taken currently in the US to curtail diversity programs at universities and exert greater control over foreign students. We reaffirm our commitment to academic freedom, open-mindedness and diversity as essential preconditions for excellence in teaching and research – values that are integral parts of the MHB mission statement.

We note with anxiety the growing political influence on the scientific community and universities in the United States. Freedom of research and teaching as well as institutional independence in tertiary education are crucial for innovation, acquisition of knowledge and social advances. They must therefore be protected from party political interference. The same applies to access to studies. Any interference with research, education and university access requires strict adherence to the rule of law and constitutional procedures and must be free from party politics.   

The MHB established links with Harvard University primarily through scientific collaboration. Findings from the Harvard Medical School and the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – on air pollution, for example, or from the Nurses’ Health Study – have contributed to healthcare improvements in Brandenburg. Research projects conducted at the MHB are based on knowledge gained in these international studies.