News Release

AAAS calls for 'immediate repeal' of British boycott targeting Israeli universities

Peer-Reviewed Publication

American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)

Click here to view AAAS's statement.

AAAS, the world's largest general science society, today urged an "immediate repeal" of a British Association of University Teachers' resolution, which calls on its members to "refrain from participation in any form of academic and cultural cooperation, or joint projects," with two universities in Israel.

"Multi-national research collaboration should never be compromised to advance a political agenda," said Alan I. Leshner, chief executive officer of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and executive publisher of the journal Science. "We join others, both inside and outside the United Kingdom, in condemning this boycott, which is counter to the positive role of free scientific inquiry."

Leshner's comments were supported by a statement from the AAAS Board of Directors declaring opposition to the boycott. The statement notes, in part, that AAAS, established in 1848, has repeatedly "stressed the importance of safeguarding free and open communication among scientists."

Moreover, the statement concludes that "in the context of the highly charged atmosphere of the Middle East, it is crucial to keep the channels of communication open in order to foster a dialogue that is inclusive of all affected people."

###

Reporters, Please Note: The AAAS CEO is available for comment on this issue. On May 24th, please contact Stacey Pasco of AAAS at 202-326-6645, spasco@aaas.org. Or, contact the AAAS Executive Office at 202-326-6633. In case of emergency during May 24th, Ginger Pinholster also can be reached via e-mail at gpinhols@aaas.org, or 202-320-1859.


Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.