Kick-off Event: Freedom of Research: A European Summit – Europe in Times of Division

We cordially invite you to our kick-off event for the Freedom of Research Summit 2025, featuring an online talk by Ines Pohl, the Washington Bureau Chief at Deutsche Welle.

Program:

14:00–14:15: Welcome remarks
14:15–15:00: Talk by Ines Pohl (via Zoom)
15:00–15:30: Questions and discussion
15:30–15:45: Coffee break
15:45–16:45: World Café
16:45–17:00: Summary and end

Abstract:

The United States has long been a beacon for freedom of research and expression. People from around the globe have come to this country to enjoy high-quality laboratories, collaborate with international colleagues, and thrive in an ideal environment for brilliant minds. However, this landscape has changed dramatically since Donald Trump’s second term. Universities are facing challenges and lawsuits, while students and faculty are increasingly concerned about their status, often hesitant to speak on camera due to fears about the evolving work environment.

Ines Pohl, a Nieman Fellow who studied at Harvard for a year, has been covering these changes in the country for many years. She has engaged with professors and students on campus and, as a White House foreign press pooler, has had the opportunity to experience Donald Trump firsthand in the Oval Office.

In her talk, she will share her insights on what makes Trump still successful, what the world can learn from his rise, and how individuals can stand firm in their beliefs without resorting to self-censorship out of fear of retribution.

If you would like to attend, please send a short email to events@khk.rwth-aachen.de.