Central European University

The Battle of the Academy: The war on academic freedom in Hungary enters its next phase

Published: 12 March 2019

After months of aggressive attacks by the Hungarian government, it's most likely that the three-decade history of the Academy as a free, autonomous public body will be brought to an abrupt end.

By Zoltán Gábor Szűcs

"It’s about a battle of ideas in which we have to constantly engage our opponents"

Published: 18 May 2017

In the beginning of April, the Hungarian President János Áder signed into force certain amendments to the Higher Education Act which in their particular formulation are obviously directed against the renowned Central European University (CEU), based in Budapest. We discussed with President Michael Ignatieff the implications of the new legislation on the university and its future prospects.

By Peter Brod

April 2017, protests against the closure of the Central European University in Budapest

Lex CEU: The beginning of the end of Hungary’s academic independence

Published: 7 April 2017

If Hungarian President János Áder signs the law, it will most probably have serious consequences for Hungary’s diplomatic relations. No less importantly, it will mark the beginning of the end of an independent academic sector in the country.

By Zsófia Deák