Inter-American principles on academic freedom and university autonomy
Webinar on international tools to advance academic freedom
Jan 26, 2026 — 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
The Human Rights Research and Education Centre (HRREC) and the Scholars at Risk (SAR) uOttawa Program and the SAR Canada Section present two webinars on the theme: International tools to advance academic freedom. These activities are organized to celebrate the Scholars at Risk (SAR) Network’s 25th anniversary and mark a quarter century of building a global movement. The University of Ottawa joined the SAR Network in 2014 and entrusted the HRREC to lead this program within our university.
Inter-American principles on academic freedom and university autonomy
The Inter-American principles on academic freedom and university autonomy, adopted in 2021, represent a significant development within the Inter-American human rights system. These principles articulate core standards designed to safeguard academic communities, reinforce institutional autonomy, and protect the role of universities in democratic societies. This webinar will explore these principles, their implications for the region, and their relevance in a global context where academic freedom faces increasing pressure.
Speakers
Pedro Vaca
Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, Inter-American Commission on Human Rights
Salvador Herencia Carrasco
Part-time Professor, Faculty of Law, Civil Law Section, HRREC member, uOttawa & Legal Advisor, Coalition for Academic Freedom in the Americas (CAFA)
Moderator | Viviana Fernandez
Associate Director, Human Rights Research and Education Centre (HRREC), uOttawa