Academic Freedom
The NTEU (university of Melbourne) has an interest in maintaining freedom of expression for academics even if their point of view is uncomfortable for the university, or for its financial interests.
Demotion or financial penalties for taking a stand, contravenes the essence of the university, because the message sent to the general public and to the university community, is that dissent or unpopular views are not tolerated. It seems even more ironic, that the truth of the statement made by Paul mees, was not in question. Truth is very much the domain of academia.
The way the university administration has dealt with Paul Mees’s case has done damage to the reputation of this university nationally and internationally. Who will believe that research that comes out of the university is not constrained by administrative reigns now?
The NTEU sees this as a very serious issue, which should not have happened, and we want assurances that the freedom of knowledge exchange will be upheld.
THE NTEU WILL BE HOLDING A PUBLIC MEETING ON ACADEMIC FREEDOM ON AUGUST 6TH -- 12.30 - 2PM
FURTHER INFORMATION WILL BE PROVIDED REGARDING SPEAKERS AND LOCATION
Further information:
| NTEU statement | NTEU national office has prepared a statement about the Paul Mees case. |