Academics in Turkey

SIR – As National Teaching Fellows of the Higher Education Academy in the UK (academics recognised for making an outstanding contribution to university learning), we express deep concern at the recent state actions against thousands of individuals in Turkey’s universities and colleges in what appears to be an indiscriminate repression of independent thought.

Reports of suspensions of education staff, forced resignation of university deans and travel bans on academics are extremely troubling in a sector that thrives upon collaboration across borders and the sharing of research, ideas and opinion. These activities promote democracy and the rule of law – essential in facing down the attempted coup of July 15.

While we recognise the need for caution in an emergency, there is a danger that, if the measures are not quickly reversed, damage to Turkey’s higher education sector will be irreparable. If Turkey wishes to remain a forward-thinking country, it will need well-educated graduates. Without talented and dedicated higher education teachers and administrators it will be hard to achieve this aim.

We strongly encourage the Turkish government to reverse these actions swiftly and restore essential exchange of knowledge. We recognise the right of an elected government to protect democracy, but cannot accept that this includes the indiscriminate targeting of academics or manipulation of what should and should not be taught in higher education.