The Board of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs (FIIA) strongly condemns all forms of harassment, threats, and intimidation directed at researchers.
Hate speech and threats directed at researchers undermine our democratic society and hinder open discussion on foreign and security policy. The researchers’ freedom of opinion and expression must not be limited or curtailed, as their work supports public discussion and decision-making. The institute considers it deeply concerning that researchers are subjected to threats, hate speech, or derogatory behaviour in the course of their work.
The Board of FIIA upholds the researchers’ constitutional right to freedom of science, including the freedom to choose their own research topics and methods, as well as to publish the results of their research. The researchers’ freedom to express their expert opinions should not be limited or curtailed in any way.
The Board of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs supports its researchers’ right to conduct scientific research, freedom of speech, and right to participate in public discussion.
The Board of the Finnish Institute of International Affairs
Kai Sauer, Chair of the board
Anu Kantola, Vice Chair
Risto Heiskala
Ville Kaunisto
Kimmo Kiljunen
René Nyberg
Sakari Puisto
Paula Vanninen
Lauri Voionmaa