Two opinion pieces (both in Dutch) by Prof. Pieter-Paul Verhaeghe address different aspects of racism. They were published recently in De Morgen and SamPol.
The first article, titled “Academische vrijheid stopt waar racisme begint”, published in De Morgen, questions the limits of academic freedom in the context of controversial appointments and racist claims. Pieter-Paul argues that universities should uphold human rights and that claims of scientific validity for racist ideas must be challenged with empirical evidence and ethical consideration. The piece emphasises that academic freedom does not extend to supporting ideas that undermine human rights.
De article can be found here. Full text of this opinion piece is available also on Pieter-Paul’s website.
The second article, “Het racisme van radicaal‑rechts moeten we ook juridisch bestrijden” in SamPol, Prof. Verhaeghe reflects on the recent conviction of a high‑profile radical‑right figure and discusses why racist political discourse should be confronted not only socially but also through legal means. The opinion piece covers the broader implications for democracy and how legal action can serve as part of the response to politically motivated racism. You can find that text here.
Those interested in Prof. Verhaeghe’s research can visit his personal website, as well as his list of publications and projects on the VUB research portal.
