Let’s talk … ‘Academics should collaborate with defence and the arms industry’

An advisory committee has recommended that Dutch academics take on commissioned research for Defence, providing a way to secure much-needed funding. Share your comment here (anonymously if you prefer), whether you’re a student or staff member.

Higher education is undergoing major budget cuts, while the Defence Ministry is seeing billions added to its budget. This creates opportunities, according to a report from the advisory committee AWTI.

The report’s premise is simple: peace cannot be taken for granted, and years of cuts have affected Dutch defence forces. Additionally, global threats have evolved. The Dutch Defence Ministry is in dire need of knowledge and innovation, the advisory committee asserts.

Meanwhile, some academics are calling for a halt to collaborations with arms manufacturers or universities affiliated with the military. What do you think? Does the funding justify the means, or should academics avoid involvement in warfare?

We would love to hear your opinion. That is why every week we ask for your opinion on a certain topic. You can contribute anonymously or with your name. We do so here and every Wednesday on our Instagram. The results will be published in a week.