Support letter of the Trade Union of the Institute of Lithuanian Literature and Folklore

We consider that the attempt of the Hungarian government to impose its control over scholarly research through structural reforms of academic institutions and changes of funding models is completely inappropriate and incompatible with democratic values. We are absolutely certain that the best way to ensure the quality of higher education and research, its global recognition as well as the scholarly independence and transparency in funding is the autonomy of researchers and scientists within their independent institutions without intrusions from administrators that are subordinate to political leaders. In Lithuania, likewise in Hungary, the consequences of direct political control over higher education are still well remembered, therefore we want to alert the Hungarian government to avoid the repetition of the same mistakes. On the contrary, we are asking them to ensure and protect academic freedom in their country.