Open Letter Condemning the Purge of Academic Institutions in Turkey

I was appalled to read of this widespread 'purge' of academic staff. Attacking academic freedom is unacceptable in any culture.

As an academic who was expelled from l'Université du Québec à Montréal and reinstated by the Québec Superior Court, i oppose any State interference in the academic milieu.

I strongly condemn the government of Turkey's actions as outlined in this petition.

Associate Dean (Academic), Faculty of Graduate Studies, York University, Toronto, Canada

Professor Emeritus, University of Wisconsin - Madison

As a US professor, I am deeply disturbed to see such attacks on academic freedom take place is a supposedly democratic country. Democracy requires tolerance of dissent to be meaningful.

Professor of Practical Philosophy, Stockholm University, Sweden

Professor of International Relations University of Arizona

Quote Einstein: Only in the diversity of the individual and of opinions can growth and development for,a better world prosper.

Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor, University of Wisconsin-Madison

It is a shame, what happens in Turkey! There is no reason and justification for such an embarrassing withc hunt and attack on the academic world!

Professors and teachers all over the world watch in horror!

Clinical Associate Professor, New York University

Firing so many people is a paranoid, pathetic act that will not advance national security, law or order at all. All it will produce – is producing – is fear and loathing.

Academic freedom is heart of the university. This is urgent!

The firing of these academics is reprehensible and not in the interest of the Turkish people.

Solidarity with our turkish colleagues

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Spain

Professor, National High School of Architecture of Marseille

Chair of the School of Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies York University, Toronto (Canada)