16.2.6. Academic freedom policy

Middle East Technical University (METU) expresses its commitment to academic freedom through its "Academic Freedom, Integrity, Inclusiveness and Equality Policy" and its institutional ethical principles and core values.

The University's policy commits METU to supporting innovative and creative academic work, including research in basic and applied sciences, and to disseminating practices grounded in scientific research. It states that members of the University community should respect freedom of thought and the diversity of academic endeavours.

METU's core values further define scientific freedom as the conduct of research and development, education, and teaching without pressure or direction based on considerations other than scientific criteria. They also identify the creation of an environment for free discussion as an essential condition of scientific freedom.

Freedom in Research and Teaching

METU's stated principles support the freedom to conduct academic research and development and to engage in education and teaching independently of pressure and non-scientific influences. The University's commitment to freedom of thought and diverse academic endeavours provides an institutional basis for academic work across different research areas and disciplines.

The policy also establishes ethical responsibilities for academic activities. Researchers are expected to report their research methods and findings fully and accurately, supporting transparency and accountability to the University and the scientific community.

Ethical and Inclusive Academic Environment

METU's ethical principles emphasise honesty in the use, evaluation, and presentation of facts, data, and documents. Its core values also include respect for human rights, opposition to discrimination, equality, merit, and high academic standards. Together, these principles provide a framework for conducting research and teaching with academic integrity and respect for diverse perspectives.

Through these published policy commitments and institutional values, METU establishes an explicit foundation for scientific freedom, freedom of thought, and the independent conduct of research and teaching.

 https://www.metu.edu.tr/tr/etik-ilkeler-temel-degerler

https://sustainablecampus.metu.edu.tr/en/policies