As a research network of social scientists studying the countries of Southern Europe, including Turkey, we declare our firm opposition to military intervention in politics and our unwavering support for democracy and the rule of law in Turkey.

At the same time, we express our deep concern about the limitations to academic freedom introduced in the aftermath of the attempted coup of 15 July. Measures taken include the order for the resignation of over 1,500 deans from all Turkey’s universities, both public and private, and the universal ban on travel outside the country which applies to all academics. Such measures run counter to democratic values and threaten the strong reputation of Turkish universities and researchers, which relies on the freedom to speak, research and publish.

We urge the Turkish authorities to rescind all the measures limiting academic freedom and declare our solidarity with our colleagues in Turkey at this difficult time.