Researchers at risk are scholars and scientists facing threats to their life, liberty, or research careers. These threats can take various forms, including war, imprisonment, and physical violence. The reasons behind these threats can be diverse, ranging from political dissent and religious beliefs to sensitive research topics.
The Science4Refugees platform, a key component of the EU's Euraxess network, acknowledges the significant loss of talent and expertise when researchers are forced to flee. This loss hinders scientific progress and innovation not only in the researchers' home countries but also globally.
EU Initiatives: Offering a Lifeline
The EU has taken a multi-pronged approach to support researchers at risk and refugees with a strong focus on:
- Networking and Support Services: The Science4Refugees platform acts as a central hub for researchers at risk and refugees seeking support. It provides access to a comprehensive database of resources, including information on relevant funding opportunities, fellowships, job vacancies, and visa regulations. Additionally, the platform facilitates networking between researchers, host institutions, and support organizations.
- Advocacy for Academic Freedom: The EU recognizes that academic freedom is crucial for a healthy research environment. It actively advocates for academic freedom on the global stage and promotes international cooperation to protect researchers at risk.
- Focus on Integration: Beyond research opportunities, the EU understands the importance of integrating researchers at risk into their host societies. Initiatives may include language courses, intercultural training, and assistance with finding suitable housing and childcare.
- Fellowship Programs: The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) offer fellowships specifically designed for researchers at risk. These fellowships provide researchers with financial support, access to research facilities, and mentorship opportunities. An example is the "Supporting at-risk researchers with fellowships in Europe" (SAFE) project, which provides two-year fellowships for international academics to continue their research in the EU.
- Inclusion Guidelines: The MSCA has also developed "Guidelines for Inclusion of Researchers at Risk". This document outlines best practices for research institutions on how to identify, recruit, and integrate researchers at risk. It emphasizes the importance of fair and transparent procedures to ensure a smooth academic transition.
Benefits for All
The EU's efforts in supporting researchers at risk and refugees extend far beyond offering them a safe haven. By integrating these talented individuals into their research ecosystems, the EU gains access to a wealth of diverse expertise and perspectives.
This diversity fuels innovation, enriches the academic landscape, and strengthens the global scientific community. Researchers at risk bring fresh ideas, often developed under challenging circumstances, which can lead to breakthroughs in various fields.
Moreover, welcoming researchers at risk demonstrates the EU's commitment to its core values of human rights, freedom of expression, and international cooperation. This, in turn, strengthens its global standing as a leader in scientific advancement.
Additional resources available
The European Union, recognizing the critical role of scientific progress, has launched a new initiative – the "Supporting At-risk Researchers with Fellowships in Europe" (SAFE) project. Funded with €12 million, SAFE offers a lifeline to 60 international researchers facing persecution or violence. This three-year project provides two-year fellowships for these scholars to continue their vital research within the safe haven of the EU. Applications from host institutions, not individual researchers, open in November 2024, with placements starting in spring 2025. This project signifies the EU's commitment to protecting academic freedom and fostering scientific innovation on a global scale.