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As members of the Hungarian Young Academy (HYA), we are issuing this statement in connection with recent events involving Ágnes Zsila, our fellow HYA member, which have attracted considerable media attention. From the perspective of the young researchers’ community, we consider it important to reiterate the fundamental principles that we have consistently upheld and that must be respected in order to retain young researchers and strengthen the domestic scientific community.
As also underlined in the mission statement of the Hungarian Young Academy, several interconnected core principles must be consistently observed in order to ensure the sustainable functioning of academic life. In this statement, we would like to highlight two of these principles.
Research freedom does not merely imply the freedom to choose one’s field of research, but also the independence of scientific thought, the possibility to explore novel ideas, and the preservation of a culture of critical dialogue free from outside influence, be it political, religious or related to science policy. It is particularly important for young researchers to be able to develop their own scope of research within a clear and consistent framework. Therefore, ensuring the freedom of research is not only a guarantee of individual scientific development, but also one of the most important drivers of the Hungarian innovation ecosystem.
Predictable career paths also constitute a key factor. Young researchers need clear, predictable, and consistently applied rules, as well as a transparent and fair promotion system that ensures their professional and existential stability. It is unacceptable for frameworks and requirements to change retrospectively and unexpectedly, as this breeds uncertainty and undermines confidence in any profession. Without a stable and consistent work environment, young researchers may easily become uncertain and often choose to give up their profession or opt for pursuing a career abroad. A predictable long-term career path is not only a guarantee of individual careers, but also a prerequisite for the renewal and competitiveness of Hungarian science.
As members of the Hungarian Young Academy, we therefore emphasize that strengthening and consistently enforcing the freedom of research and predictable career models is in the common interest not only of young researchers, but also of the entire scientific community and Hungarian society.
Budapest, 29 September 2025
Signatories from the 59 members: