European Research Orgs Write Open Letter to European Parliament President to Respect Science Advice, Condemn Physical Attacks on Scientists

Research organizations in Europe have signed an open letter calling upon the European Parliament to encourage society to respect independent science advice and to condemn physical attacks on scientists. This was called following an incident at the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in Parma on June 7, when a package containing explosive material was sent to a scientist providing independent scientific advice to EFSA.

Published on the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO) website, the open letter is addressed to the President of the European Parliament, copied to the Vice-President as well as the President of the European Commission and the Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation. It reiterates support for independent scientific research and investigation, and proposes measures to prevent attacks targeting scientists and/or research facilities.

The letter, which has been signed by 35 science organizations, societies, and academies on July 1, states that threats to publicly funded scientists are threats to a society which relies on their independent advice, citing similar attacks in the U.S., Australasia, Philippines, and Latin America.

Read the Open Letter and other details at the EPSO website.