Academic researchers in Israel are grappling with significant challenges stemming from the aftermath of Israel’s military actions against Hamas in Gaza, according to a recent survey. The survey, conducted by the Israel Young Academy and Afiq in Academia: the Israeli Women University Professors’ Forum, sheds light on the profound impact of the conflict on the country's research community.
Since the conflict erupted following Hamas’s terrorist attack on Israel in October 2023, casualties have mounted on both sides, with nearly 1500 lives lost in Israel and close to 30,000 in Gaza. The destruction of university buildings and infrastructure in Gaza has severely disrupted academic activities in the region.
The survey, conducted among 1015 faculty members from all 10 of Israel’s universities, revealed widespread concerns about the future of academic research. It found that the conflict has already caused significant harm, with 5% of respondents reporting direct harm to themselves or family members, and 11% indicating harm to members of their research groups.
Particularly vulnerable are early-career faculty and women, along with those lacking tenure. These groups reported feeling more strain compared to their counterparts. The survey also highlighted concerns about the ability to forge international collaborations, access funding, and participate in global academic events.
Looking ahead, researchers fear that the repercussions of the conflict will escalate further. They anticipate challenges in giving lectures abroad, submitting proposals to international funding agencies, and receiving objective peer reviews for their work.
The survey also underscored instances of academic censorship and discrimination. Some researchers recounted experiences of being asked to withdraw manuscripts or being excluded from academic opportunities due to their Israeli affiliation.
To mitigate the impact of the conflict, many researchers advocate for increased funding to support international collaborations and attract foreign talent to Israel. They stress the importance of maintaining a vibrant academic culture in the face of geopolitical challenges.
The findings of the survey highlight the urgent need for support and solidarity within the global academic community to safeguard academic freedom and collaboration in conflict-affected regions like Israel.
