University Freedom, Role, and Position in Society

Research within the second focus area relates to the assumption that universities serve as guarantors of free development of knowledge and critical social analysis, both of which are considered important foundations of democratic social systems and governance. The focus is on the role and function of universities in relation to democratic and other societal institutions, the conditions under which universities operate in different societal systems and at different times, and how universities are governed and managed. The programme focuses on research relating to the conditions for universities in both democratic and non-democratic societies, as well as in societies where democratic institutions are being built or dismantled.

Direction 4: Universities, Higher Education, and Knowledge in Democratic Transformation

In this direction research focuses on questions about the role and conditions of universities and higher education in and during democratisation processes. What challenges does higher education face in societies where democratic systems are challenged or diminished, or where democratic institutions are lacking? The research builds on historical lessons about the role and position of universities, and the contextual conditions they face in different contexts and times. The research also includes analyses of contemporary examples of both ongoing democratisation and autocratisation processes, including extensive research in Africa and Ukraine.

Direction 5: University Freedom and Function in Democratic Societies

Research in this direction examines the role of universities as centres of knowledge creation in democratic societies. How do universities interact, or not, with other parts of society and with democratic procedures and principles? This direction encompasses a long tradition of research on university governance and management, internal organisation and resource allocation, and questions of academic freedom as a fundamental ideal and practice in democratic societies. The research focuses on analysing the economic, political and legal conditions for universities, but also for higher education and research in a broader sense.