28.05.2026 - SAR FWB · Truth Matters : Protecting Truth, Defending Freedom
At a time when wars knock at our doors, disinformation challenges facts, and researchers are increasingly targeted for their work, the defence of truth has become a shared and urgent responsibility.
We are pleased to invite you to a high-level event marking the 25th anniversary of the Scholars at Risk international network: “Truth Matters: Protecting Truth, Defending Freedom”, which will be taking place in Brussels on May 28th, 2026, 1:00 PM – 5:30 PM, followed by a networking reception. This gathering will bring together voices to confront one of the defining challenges of our time: safeguarding academic freedom and ensuring that truth can endure – even under pressure.
This event will offer a unique platform to:
- Hear directly from exiled researchers whose work preserves memory, challenges power, and defends scientific integrity;
- Engage with European policymakers, university leaders, and civil society actors on concrete actions to better protect scholars at risk;
- Explore how Europe – and its universities – can remain a refuge for knowledge, evidence, and critical thinking.
The programme will feature three thematic sessions:
- Obliterated Truth – Preserving Memory in Conflict Zones, on safeguarding knowledge and archives threatened by war and displacement.
- Silenced Truth – Research Challenging Power, on protecting researchers targeted for exposing sensitive or inconvenient truths.
- Defended Truth – Europe Rising to the Challenge, on addressing growing pressures within Europe itself, from disinformation to political influence.
The event will be introduced by Mrs. Elisabeth Degryse, Minister-President of the Wallonia- Brussels Federation, and will be followed by a networking reception.
Registration is mandatory – don’t miss out! Secure your spot now by filling out the registration form. Registrations are open until May 20th, 2026.
By convening this dialogue in Brussels, at the heart of Europe, we aim to send a strong and collective message: truth matters – and it must be protected.
We warmly encourage you to join us for this important conversation and to contribute to shaping a stronger, more resilient academic community. Also, do not hesitate to share this event with anyone in your network who might be interested !