Academic freedom has declined in 50 countries, and only 9 countries have registered improvements, according to the Academic Freedom Index released March 17, 2026 by the Friedrich-Alexander-Universität.
“While all dimensions of academic freedom are now declining in more countries than those in which they are improving, the most widespread declines are occurring in individual-level dimensions and campus integrity,” the report said.
“The decline in institutional autonomy in the United States stands out as a case of fast and steep deterioration,” the report also said.