Scottish event highlights support for academics at risk

Two days of events on campus and in Edinburgh brought together 60 students and academics from six European universities, all of whom work with the international human rights organisation Scholars at Risk.

A day of workshops in Dundee was followed by a day of action in the capital, with students displaying posters in the city centre to highlight how political and free speech oppression affects learners in other countries. Additionally, students met with Angus Robertson, Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture, to discuss the use of soft power to promote human rights, as well as former First Minister, Humza Yousaf MSP, who shared his experiences of advocating for human rights.

Dr Edzia Carvalho, lecturer in Politics at the University’s School of Humanities, Social Sciences and Law, who organised the event, said, “In these globally troubled times where academic freedom, freedom of expression and basic human rights are under so much threat, it’s great to work with students who are passionate about the freedoms of others.

“As well as sharing their own successes and difficulties in campaigning, the students heard from human rights activists from Kenya, Belarus and Colombia. Hearing of the personal risks they take in their work, the pressure that can be put on their families, and the constant anxiety they face because of their advocacy is a powerful warning about the personal impact of authoritarian rulers.”