ICONS Austrian Chapter Conference 2026

“Academic Freedom and Democracy”
Graz, 7‑8 Sept­ember 2026

Venue: University of Graz, RESOWI, Universitätsstraße 15, 8010 Graz

The Second Austrian Chapter Conference will focus on the manifold interrelations of academic freedom and democracy. Academic freedom is under increasing pressure across the globe. In recent years, we have witnessed mounting threats to scholars, universities, and other academic institutions – from political interference and authoritarian tendencies to the growing influence of market forces. These developments pose significant challenges not only to the autonomy of academia but also to the broader democratic order.

The conference adopts a broad understanding of academic freedom, encompassing both individual and institutional dimensions. It seeks to illuminate how academic freedom interacts with and supports other fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, freedom of religion, and the right to privacy. These intersections are of increasing importance as societies grapple with democratic backsliding, technological transformation, and global crises.

The conference aims to address the overarching concept of academic freedom in public law as well as concrete challenges of the 21^st century, highlighting its essential role in sustaining democracy and democratic development. We welcome global perspectives from all continents, while placing particular emphasis on experiences in Central and Eastern Europe, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. The conference will approach the topic from a comparative and interdisciplinary perspective.

Preliminary Programme

7 September 2026

8 September 2026

Preliminary Programme to download

If you are interested in participating:
please register here