Declaration of the Global Scientific Community: Defending Science, Knowledge and Public Interest in the Face of Political Suppression

As scientists and advocates for evidence-based policy, we stand united in defence of scientific integrity, freedom of inquiry, and the role of science in addressing global challenges. The growing politicization of scientific research, suppression of critical data, and defunding of essential research programs pose an existential threat—not just to academic institutions but to public and planetary health, environmental sustainability, and human progress.

Since January 20, 2025, policy shifts in the United States have raised grave concerns about scientific independence, environmental protections, and public health initiatives. This is not an isolated trend. Globally, scientific research is increasingly censored, disregarded, or selectively interpreted to align with ideological or economic interests. The suppression of climate science, public health and environmental justice research is part of a broader pattern of restricting scientific discourse, which disproportionately harms vulnerable populations, weakens democratic institutions, and exacerbates global inequities.

Furthermore, self-censorship among government agencies, academic journals, and individual scientists—driven by fear of political or financial repercussions—threatens the very foundation of open and transparent scientific progress. The global scientific community cannot remain passive in the face of these challenges. We must take a firm stand to uphold scientific freedom, advocate for evidence-based policies, and protect the role of science in public decision-making.

We, the scientific community, recognize the urgent need for a unified and proactive response. To counteract these threats, we put forth the following agenda:

1. Defending Scientific Integrity and Freedom We strongly oppose any efforts to distort, suppress, or manipulate scientific findings for political or ideological purposes. Scientific research must remain independent from governmental and economic pressures, with research institutions free to conduct and disseminate findings without fear of retaliation.
2. Engaging with the Public Science must not remain in an ivory tower. We commit to enhancing public engagement, fostering trust in scientific expertise, demonstrating the real-world benefits of science for all members of society, and being attentive to the knowledge needs expressed by civil society. By fostering Open Science and improving science communication, we aim to counter misinformation and anti-science rhetoric.
3. Countering Anti-Science Narratives The spread of misinformation and the deliberate discrediting of scientific expertise pose a serious threat to rational and evidence-based decision-making. We call on scientists, educators, and communicators to actively counteract false narratives and engage in fact-based discourse with policymakers and the public, which is especially important in increasingly polarized societies. 
4. Strengthening Scientific Institutions Scientific institutions, professional organizations and funding agencies must be protected from politically motivated budget cuts, targeted lay-offs, and restrictions. We call on national and international governments, philanthropic organizations, and the private sector to support sustained investment in basic and applied research and innovation as essential pillars of societal and technological advancement.
5. Legal and Institutional Advocacy We pledge to take all necessary legal measures to challenge policies that undermine scientific freedom and integrity. This includes supporting litigation, legislative initiatives, and oversight mechanisms that ensure transparency and accountability in government decision-making and other key stakeholders.
6. Promoting International Collaboration Science thrives on global cooperation. Moreover, many of the world’s problems/challenges today are not limited to administrative borders and require transnational collaborations. We will work across borders to maintain and strengthen collaborative research efforts, ensuring that knowledge and innovation continue to benefit humanity as a whole. 
7. Promoting Research in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs) Many critical research projects, including those focused on climate change, environment and health, infectious diseases, and public health, have been defunded or cancelled in the U.S. and other countries due to political interference with serious consequences for such research in LMICs. In addition, pressure and censorship challenge scientific freedom and integrity at a global scale. We call for increased international efforts to fund and support such research in LMICs, ensuring that scientific progress continues where it is most needed. Strengthening scientific capacity in these regions will contribute to global knowledge and foster equitable solutions to pressing global challenges. Defunding international projects will have a global effect as infectious diseases and health-threatening pollution do not stop at borders.
8. Upholding Ethics and Scientific Responsibility As scientists, we reaffirm our commitment to ethical research practices, transparency, and the responsible application of scientific knowledge. Science must serve the public good, and we will continue to advocate for policies that uphold human rights, environmental sustainability, and social equity.
9. Supporting Our Colleagues We express our solidarity with our colleagues in countries where science is suppressed, who face increasing political and institutional pressures that threaten their ability to conduct and communicate their research freely. The global scientific community stands with them in defence of academic freedom and scientific integrity. We urge international organizations, universities, and research institutions to provide support, collaborations, and platforms to amplify their voices and sustain their work. Furthermore, we call on funding bodies in Europe to establish special grant mechanisms for scientists who wish to relocate to Europe, ensuring that their expertise is preserved and they can continue contributing to the global scientific endeavour.

We stand in solidarity with scientists, educators, and policymakers who are resisting political suppression and advocating for truth, reason, the collective advancement of human knowledge, and evidence-based decision making. The challenges we face—from environmental pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss to pandemics and sustainable development—require evidence-based solutions, not ideological suppression.

Science is not a partisan issue. It is a foundation for progress, well-being, wealth, and the sustainable future of our planet. We call on all members of the scientific community, alongside the public and decision-makers, to join us in defending science against political interference. Now is the time to act.