LASA’s statement in defense of academic freedom in Paraguay

May 7, 2021

The generation, elaboration, and publication of evidence-based reports and their conclusions are essential in scholarly research. Threatening academic institutions and researchers with legal actions for their legitimate activities constitutes a clear case of intimidation and an attempt to curtail academic freedom. It is also a potent and unacceptable threat to scholars who may want to do research on this or similar issues in the future. 

In a free society, an academic report is criticized or refuted by another scholarly report when new evidence warrants it. In the academic world there is no place for legal actions that put the well-being, even the freedom, of researchers at risk. In a democracy, judges do not judge scholarly work. Academia and its peer review process do, according to their scholarly merits. 

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About LASA

The Latin American Studies Association (LASA) is the largest professional association in the world for individuals and institutions engaged in the study of Latin America. With over 13,000 members, over 60% of whom reside outside the United States, LASA is the one association that brings together experts on Latin America from all disciplines and diverse occupational endeavors, across the globe. LASA's mission is to foster intellectual discussion, research, and teaching on Latin America, the Caribbean, and its people throughout the Americas, promote the interests of its diverse membership, and encourage civic engagement through network building and public debate.

If you wish to interview a LASA Executive Council member, you can contact the LASA communications office at (412) 648-7929 or send an email to lasa@lasaweb.org.