In an era of shifting political landscapes and increasing pressures on universities, the fundamental principles of academic freedom and openness of research are being challenged like never before. The OPEN action’s second annual conference at the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen represents a meaningful event in the efforts of the OPEN Action to address pressing issues surrounding the openness of European higher education and research in the face of rising nationalisms and geopolitical pressures. 

By bringing together leading scholars from 40 countries, this second annual conference represents a collective step to critically examine diverse pan-European and interdisciplinary perspectives on the university in times of geopolitical uncertainty and threats to academic freedom.

The OPEN action’s second annual conference brings together scholars, policymakers, and higher education leaders to participate in a panoply of insightful keynote speakers, a very special roundtable focusing on Establishing a Permanent Infrastructure for Supporting Academics in Europe, panel discussions, and joint work of the working groups. Moreover, ample networking opportunities will enable participants to forge new collaborations, share research findings, and contribute to the advancement of research agendas within the EU and beyond.