BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom

Latest Statement/Letter

The BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom has written to Iranian authorities urging them not to adopt the proposed Bill to Counter the Infiltration of Foreign Intelligence Services and Governments or Foreign Entities. We are deeply concerned that the current draft, if adopted, would threaten academic freedom, international scholarly exchange and the rights of students, researchers and university staff in Iran. 

Our concerns are heightened by the growing pressures on Iranian students and university staff. For example, recent reports indicate that six students at Sharif University of Technology have been issued expulsion orders. Reza Dalman, a master’s student at the university, has also reportedly been expelled and barred from studying at any Iranian university for four years following an act of peaceful expression on campus. Such a severe punishment reinforces fears that expression or communication considered politically sensitive may have lasting consequences for a student’s education and career.

We respectfully urge the relevant authorities to halt the passage of this bill and affirm their commitment to academic freedom, institutional autonomy and the participation of Iranian scholars and students in international academic life. We furthermore urge the relevant authorities to review the disciplinary action against Reza Dalman and all other students who have been punished for peaceful expression.

3 September 2026