Science drives discoveries that expand knowledge and understanding of ourselves,
the world, and future possibilities, based on rigorous, evidence-based research.
Together with many others, FENS – the Federation of European Neuroscience
Societies – has witnessed threats to the scientific endeavour in the United States
with recent funding cuts and freezes, restrictive policies, stop-work enforcements,
and the spread of misinformation. These challenges have global repercussions,
undermining international scientific collaboration, a cornerstone of not only
scientific research itself, but also of global scientific knowledge exchange.
A reduction in public funding will slow down and jeopardise scientific progress
and medical breakthroughs vital for societal development, increase disease
burden, and impact communities facing environmental and health crises. Any
restrictions on funding or collaboration also risk silencing the voices of those
individuals affected by neurological and psychiatric diseases, limiting essential
advancements that would improve the lives of millions of people worldwide.
Furthermore, it will weaken global innovation and stability, which is essential for
building stronger, more resilient economies.
Threats to academic freedom, barriers to open scientific inquiry and responsible
animal research, and the rapid dissemination of misinformation may also further
weaken public trust in science at a time when evidence-based solutions and
scientific knowledge are more important than ever. Without sustained investment
and support, the pace of discovery will decline, having profoundly damaging long-
term consequences that may take years or even decades to restore.
Discriminatory policies targeting diversity, equity and inclusion as well as
marginalised and underrepresented groups will also threaten the scientific
community. It is a moral obligation to stand up for our colleagues to support their
continued inclusion in scientific research.
FENS and its allies express our full support to our scientific friends in the U.S. who
fight against these imposed threats and call on communities around the world to
stand up together in solidarity because science matters! With a united voice, we
can further strengthen and protect the scientific enterprise to help ensure the
health and well-being of all. Science knows no borders, and when we invest in
science together, we build a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable future for
everyone everywhere.

Read the text on FENS website.