Overview
At a time of geopolitical instability, the language and objectives of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are increasingly under threat, with widespread disruption to research, education, and library programs, and the withdrawal of crucial sources of research funding.
How can scholarly publishers, as key stakeholders and participants in the global academic community, unite to effectively resist censorship and uphold academic freedom?
This event is a continuation of the conversations we had in Leeds in September 2025, and is dedicated to encouraging open dialogue around the #DefendResearch initiative. We aim to explore and develop practical strategies to combat censorship and strengthen support networks for publishers and researchers facing these critical challenges. You can read a summary of our previous event in the Scholarly Kitchen.
Our panel will be chaired by George Cooper, Lecturer in Publishing Practice at UCL who will be joined by several speakers to provide a range of perspectives:
- Dr Alison Hicks, Associate Professor, Department of Information Studies, UCL
- Dr. Suze Kundu, #DefendResearch Steering Committee and Science Communication Consultant
- Prof. Stephan Lewandowsky, Chair in Cognitive Psychology, University of Bristol
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Violeta Ribarska, Head of Partners, Policy and Engagement, IOP Publishing
The panel discussion will be followed by Scholarly Social networking with pizza and drinks provided by The Editorial Hub and IOP Publishing.
