Call for Respectful Discussions

The Latvian Institute of International Affairs strongly condemns any persecution, defamation or denigration directed against our researchers and researchers of other think tanks and academic organisations. We condemn the creation of any factually unbased or personally offensive media content directed at researchers and their work. The Institute calls on the public to respect the principles of responsible discussion and base the exchange of views on facts and respect for scientific work.

The diversity of discussions and opinions, including on foreign political processes, is an integral part of a democratic, free and intelligent society. Being able to listen and have a peaceful discussion about complex and emotionally saturated issues demonstrates both human wisdom and courage. It is only through diverse discussions that we come to quality decision-making.

The freedoms of academic thought and individual expression belong to every person in accordance with the Constitution and laws of the Republic of Latvia. This is also respected by our project partners who do not interfere with analytical work and opinions of individual researchers and scientists. Our researchers rely solely on personal professional expertise, scientific methodology, research ethics and data, so any attempt to intimidate or unduly discredit them is unacceptable and inappropriate behaviour for an informed public.