Academic Solidarity e.V.

Harvard University’s 2025 commencement ceremony was not only an academic celebration, but also an opportunity to reflect on immigration, academic freedom, and political oppression. Stanford University professor and author Dr. Abraham Verghese’s speech (https://youtu.be/4mjPt7cZW1k?si=K2SCPaQf2mXy1dlQ) shed light on these issues and inspired the graduates.

Verghese, who was born in Ethiopia and studied medicine in India, shared his own immigration experiences in his speech. Verghese, who came to the US to pursue a career in medicine, emphasized the opportunities America offers to immigrants and the contribution of this diversity to the country’s strength. He also criticized the Trump administration’s policies towards international students and praised Harvard’s stance against these oppressions.

Verghese called on the graduates to appreciate the value of life and make the most of their time. Another important statement in the speech was the sentence, “Character is determined by decisions made under pressure.”

In one of the most striking moments of his speech, Dr. Abraham Verghese made reference to the slogan “Make America Great Again,” frequently used by former US President Donald Trump. However, Verghese emphasized that in order for this statement to truly come to life, the contributions of immigrants must be recognized. Drawing on his own immigration story, he reminded us that America has developed through international contributions in many areas, from science to the arts, technology to health. “What makes this country great is its values ​​that keep it open to the world,” he said.

This emphasis was both a reference to political rhetoric and a strong message against rising xenophobia.

In his speech at the commencement ceremony, Harvard President Alan Garber reiterated the university’s commitment to its global student community. He stated that international students are an integral part of Harvard, with the phrase “from all over the world – as they should be.” This statement was interpreted as a stance against the Trump administration’s restrictions on international student visas.

Harvard University has once again demonstrated its commitment to academic freedom and diversity by standing up to the pressures on international students. Verghese’s speech provided an opportunity for not only graduates but also society as a whole to reflect on unity, solidarity and human values.

The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies deeply affects not only industrial production but also academic research and social structures. While AI’s capacity to conduct doctoral research threatens many professions, it also questions the future of academic careers.

The ability of AI systems to solve complex scientific problems and develop new hypotheses is revolutionizing the world of research. This requires academics to redefine their roles and work in collaboration with AI.

The integration of AI into production processes can reduce the need for labor, especially in factories. This brings with it the risk of widespread unemployment. It is important for societies to be prepared for this transformation and strengthen their social safety nets.

International standards are being developed to manage the risks brought by AI and ensure its ethical use:

• ISO/IEC 23894:2023: Provides guidance for identifying, analyzing and monitoring risks throughout the life cycle of AI systems.
• ISO/IEC 42001:2023: Specifies requirements for the establishment, implementation and continuous improvement of AI management systems.

These standards aim to support organizations in using AI technologies responsibly and securely.

In Germany, 92% of businesses use AI technologies directly or indirectly. This widespread use necessitates effective and ethical management of AI.

The following steps are recommended to manage the social and economic impacts of AI:

1. Education and Awareness: Raising public awareness of AI and disseminating educational programs.

2. Social Security: Strengthening social safety nets against workforce transformation and evaluating basic income practices.

3. Ethics and Legal Regulations: Establishing and implementing national and international legal frameworks for the ethical use of AI.

While evaluating the opportunities offered by AI, it is critical to consider the risks it brings and to direct this technology for the benefit of humanity.

Student movements have been the vanguard of social change throughout history, voicing demands for freedom and justice against oppressive regimes. Today, students around the world take to the streets to make their voices heard and defend their rights.

Student Movements Have Been Effective Throughout History

Student protests have played an important role in many areas, from civil rights movements to anti-war demonstrations. For example, the protests held at Columbia University against the Vietnam War in 1968 forced university administrations to change their policies and created widespread social awareness. Similarly, the Tiananmen Square protests in China in 1989 became a symbol of demands for democratic reform.

Current Student Movements and Repressions in Türkiye

Students in Türkiye are also fighting for democratic rights and freedoms. However, these movements have recently faced increasing pressure. In the most recent operations conducted in 47 provinces centered in Gaziantep, 77 people, including university students, were arrested. These operations raise serious concerns regarding freedom of expression and the right to organize.

The Rümeysa Öztürk Incident in the US

Rümeysa Öztürk, a doctoral student at Tufts University in the US, was detained on the grounds that she supported Palestine and held in an immigration center for six weeks. However, she was released by court order. This incident drew international attention to the issues of freedom of expression and academic freedom.

The Rule of Law and the Future of Student Movements

The rule of law and the protection of fundamental rights are essential for student movements to be successful. In democratic societies, students’ rights to peacefully protest must be guaranteed and their freedom of expression must be supported. Otherwise, these movements can be suppressed and social progress can be hindered.

Student movements are the engine of change and progress. However, for these movements to be effective, it is essential that democratic values ​​and the rule of law are protected.

In Turkey and many other parts of the world, the doctoral process for young academic candidates can be interrupted due to reasons such as financial difficulties, bureaucratic obstacles and loss of motivation. Some academics, especially those who migrate, are forced to leave their doctoral studies unfinished. However, a doctorate is not only the foundation of an academic career, but also of independent thinking, disciplined work and knowledge production.

Doctoral education is of great importance not only for those who want to stay at universities, but also for preparation for research and leadership positions in think tanks, NGOs, international organizations and the private sector. Doing a doctorate provides ethical responsibility, methodological competence and critical analysis skills in knowledge production.

Moreover, at a time when academic production is under such pressure, doctoral studies are becoming a tool of knowledge-based opposition, intellectual autonomy and scientific resistance.

Scholarship Opportunities for Doctoral Studies in Germany

DAAD Scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers doctoral scholarships to candidates from all disciplines.

Humboldt Foundation – Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship: Ideal for those who want to do research at postdoc level but want to continue their doctorate.

Gerda Henkel Foundation: Focuses on humanities, history and cultural heritage.

Rosa Luxemburg Foundation: For those interested in issues such as social justice, equality and the environment.

Examples of University-Sponsored Scholarships

• Uni Trier – PhD Completion Scholarship

• Uni Marburg – Philosophy of Law and Criminal Law Scholarship

• HHU Düsseldorf – Scholarship List

German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF): The BMBF provides scholarships through various institutions to support doctoral research.

Those who drop out of their doctorate can take part in more flexible, part-time or modular programs. After all, a doctorate is not just an academic title, but a way of knowledge-based solidarity, intellectual freedom and shaping the future. There are always opportunities for those who embrace the principle of “from cradle to grave”.

In April 2025, tensions between Harvard University and the Trump administration triggered a global debate over academic freedom and university autonomy. The Trump administration demanded that Harvard conduct screenings of students and staff for “diversity of views” and shut down certain student groups. The university rejected these demands, and the administration threatened to freeze Harvard’s $2.3 billion in federal research funding, revoke its tax exemption, and suspend its ability to accept international students.

Harvard’s Resistance and Legal Challenge

Harvard University filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, claiming that these interventions violated its constitutional rights. University President Alan Garber made the institution’s stance clear, saying, “The university will not surrender its independence or surrender its constitutional rights.”

The Relationship Between Politics and Universities: A Global Issue

This incident has also brought about a global debate on how universities should stand against political pressures. Academic freedom is not just an institution, but one of the cornerstones of democratic societies. The autonomy of universities is a guarantee of critical thinking and scientific progress.

Harvard’s resistance also sets an example for other universities. Academic institutions around the world are re-evaluating how they should stand against similar political pressures through this incident.

These developments once again show that universities are not only educational and research institutions, but also defenders of democratic values. Harvard’s stance sets an important example for the protection of academic freedom and university autonomy.

In recent years, many international actors have launched massive food projects in Africa with the claim of increasing agricultural production. However, these projects, which set out with the claim of “feeding Africa”, do not mean food security for local peoples and farmers on the continent, but rather seed dependency.

The Global Adventure of Seeds: Who is Feeding Whom?

According to the documentary “The Great Seed Theft” broadcast by Al Jazeera English, heirloom seeds that local farmers in Africa have planted for thousands of years and passed down from generation to generation are rapidly disappearing under the pressure of multinational corporations. These seeds are often replaced with patented hybrid seeds, and this new system creates a dependency that forces farmers to buy new seeds every season.

Seed Banks or Seed Prisons?

“Seed banks” funded by Norway, the US and other global actors, while ostensibly established to protect biodiversity, also come with legal frameworks that prevent farmers from sharing and replanting seeds. Some states within the African Union have begun implementing these legal regulations under the guise of “agricultural development.” However, this system eliminates farmers’ ownership of seeds and encourages the commercialization of seeds rather than their production.

Heirloom Seeds: The Key to the Future, Not Just the Past

Heirloom seeds are not just a nostalgic value; they are a strategic resource for climate change resilience, biodiversity and food sovereignty. In the documentary, many farmers and local organizations from Tanzania to Kenya emphasize that indigenous seeds are vital not only for agriculture but also for cultural identity. In this context, heirloom seed advocates are developing alternative models based on local knowledge, local seeds and farmers’ own decision-making mechanisms against international food programs.

Lessons for the World

In Turkey and around the world, traditional seeds are rapidly being replaced by hybrid, imported and patented seeds. Local seed networks, support for small producers and encouragement of seed sharing are among the important strategies developed against this trend.

Similar dynamics are also experienced worldwide, especially in South Asia, Latin America and the Middle East. The commercialization of seeds is becoming not only an economic tool but also a form of biopolitical control. International civil society networks are trying to establish a transnational solidarity network to defend farmers’ rights over seeds.

For example, the world’s largest peasant movement, La Via Campesina, representing over 200 million farmers in more than 80 countries around the world, is effective both at the policy level (FAO, UN etc.) and in collaboration with local movements within the framework of the concept of “Food sovereignty”.

The arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and the cancellation of his diploma created a breaking point in Turkey that deeply shook not only politics but also the academic world. The increasing pressure from the government targets not only politicians but also academics and students. The young generation in particular is increasingly choosing to go abroad as a way out.

İmamoğlu’s Arrest and the Reaction at Universities

İmamoğlu’s arrest on March 19, 2025 on political grounds and the subsequent detention of hundreds of students due to protests brought universities to the center of political conflict. Students began boycotting classes and protesting on many campuses from Istanbul University to Middle East Technical University.

Following these developments, more than 500 students were detained; It is reported that 299 of them are still under arrest.

Academy Under Pressure: Young People Seek Their Future Abroad

Political pressures affect everyone. The fact that the administrative staff at universities are made up of people close to the government, the restriction of scientific freedoms, the pressure to publish, and the censorship of freedom of expression play a decisive role in young academics turning abroad.

According to a March 2024 study by the Sabancı University Istanbul Policy Center, 63% of young people between the ages of 18 and 25 want to live outside of Turkey. The most frequently cited reasons are more freedom (20.7%) and not feeling safe in Türkiye (16.8%).

At the same time, 44% of young academics stated that “I want to continue my academic career abroad at the first opportunity.”

Political Climate Affects Scientific Production

Universities in developed countries report a significant increase in the number of applications from Türkiye. Universities in Germany, the Netherlands and Canada have begun to open new scholarship and guest researcher programs for Turkish researchers. Global solidarity programs such as “Scholar at Risk” in particular are protecting academics from Türkiye. This wave of migration does not only mean individual escape, but also a large gap in Türkiye’s scientific production capacity.

Turkey is Moving Away from the Information Society

While rising youth protests are seen as a hope, the current political climate is alienating young people from the country. Academia, on the other hand, is nothing more than a silent witness to this crisis. Most universities have refrained from making any statements regarding İmamoğlu’s arrest and the student detentions. Türkiye’s future is being shaped not only at the ballot box but also in university lecture halls. However, if these lecture halls continue to empty, not only today’s knowledge but also tomorrow’s knowledge will be silenced.

Türkiye has recently been at a critical crossroads between democracy and authoritarianism. The arrest of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu and the cancellation of his university degree have led to widespread protests across the country. These actions, led particularly by university students, have become a resistance movement against the government’s increasingly oppressive policies.

İmamoğlu’s Arrest and Cancellation of His Degree

On March 18, 2025, Istanbul University canceled Ekrem İmamoğlu’s degree on the grounds that there were irregularities in his transfer from a private university in Northern Cyprus to Istanbul University in 1990. This decision eliminated İmamoğlu’s possibility of running for the 2028 presidential elections.

The following day, on March 19, 2025, İmamoğlu and more than 100 people with him were detained on charges of corruption and links to the terrorist organization PKK. These arrests have been viewed by opposition and human rights organizations as politically motivated.

Ironically, while the fate of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s university degree has still not been clarified for years, opposition leader İmamoğlu’s degree has been revoked. Doubts about whether Erdoğan actually has a university degree are still being discussed in the public domain, but to date, no transparent documentation or independent verification has been produced on the subject.

Since the protests began, around 2,000 people have been detained nationwide, including a significant number of university students. Around 200 people are currently being held in custody.

Protests Led by University Students

İmamoğlu’s arrest and the revocation of his degree have caused a huge backlash among university students. Istanbul University students expressed their anger by boycotting classes and organizing protests on campus. These actions spread to other universities and turned into a student movement across the country.

Students have raised their voices against the oppression at universities with the slogan “If there is violence, there is no class.” Middle East Technical University (METU) students also protested the government’s oppressive policies by organizing marches on their campuses.

Calls for an Economic Boycott

Following İmamoğlu’s arrest, Republican People’s Party (CHP) leader Özgür Özel called for an economic boycott against companies close to the government. This call was supported by students and civil society organizations. Government officials, however, reacted harshly, describing these boycotts as “economic sabotage” and announced that legal action would be taken.

The Role of the Academy and International Reactions

Academics and universities in Türkiye supported the students’ protests and emphasized that academic freedoms must be protected. In forums held at Istanbul University, a decision was made for an academic boycott and it was stated that university administrations should be more resistant to government pressures.

In the international arena, the Council of Europe and various human rights organizations criticized İmamoğlu’s arrest and the democratic setbacks in Türkiye, calling on the government to respect the rule of law.

The Future of Türkiye and the Responsibility of the International Community

Türkiye is at a critical juncture between democracy and authoritarianism. İmamoğlu’s arrest and the rise of student movements demonstrate the desire of broad segments of society to embrace democratic values. It is of great importance for the international community to take responsibility for the protection of democratic institutions and the defense of human rights in Türkiye.

US President Donald Trump’s restrictions on international scientists continue in his second term. As of 2025, the US government has begun sending out new questionnaires, especially to scientists who receive funding from abroad or work with US-based support. This development is creating concern and distrust among researchers in Europe. Researchers working at some universities are being forced to fill out a questionnaire called “scientific security screening” for projects they conduct with American partners. The questions include the researcher’s international collaborations, political background, funding sources, and even themes in some of the studies they have published.

Trump drew attention with the pressures on Chinese scientists during his first term as president. Now, the same pressure and distrust policy has begun to be applied to European Union countries. In response, the European Commission announced last month that it had developed visa facilitation for researchers from the US and accelerated joint project application mechanisms compatible with Horizon Europe funds. This will allow scientists in the US to face less bureaucracy when they want to work at institutions in Europe or conduct temporary research. EU officials say this process is strategic both in terms of protecting scientific freedom and attracting talent.

The Trump administration’s new repressive policies towards science are making scientific cooperation with the US difficult, while creating new opportunities for Europe. European universities, especially those that emphasize principles such as funding independence, freedom of publication and research security, could crown these developments with a reverse brain drain. This process could change not only scientific production but also the direction of global knowledge flows.