Ferenc Krausz resigns his membership of the Russian Academy of Sciences

Professor Ferenc Krausz has resigned his membership of the Russian Academy of Sciences despite an existing communicative blockade on the part of the association. In this context, Krausz emphasized that international exchange and the global network of scientists are of great value to him and that he had therefore thoroughly considered this step. However, in view of the continuing lack of protest from the most prominent representative organization of the scientific community in Russia against the war of aggression in violation of international law and the Russian war crimes against Ukraine, he could no longer reconcile membership with his conscience. The third anniversary of the Russian escalation and a recent, deeply moving visit to Kyiv and other cities in Ukraine scarred by the fighting in the course of an academic exchange have therefore prompted him to take this stand. The 2023 Nobel Laureate in Physics explains his decision in his own words as follows:

“As a member of the global scientific community, I consider it essential to take a stand against acts that violate international law and human rights. I am deeply disturbed by the silence of the Russian Academy of Sciences on this matter. It violates the principles of academic integrity and ethical responsibility that scientific institutions should uphold.”

The international scientific community has widely condemned Russia’s actions. Many institutions have suspended cooperation and membership of the Russian Academy. “I, too, can no longer in good conscience maintain my membership in an organization that does not distance itself from these outrageous actions,” Krausz continued.

“I urge the RAS to reconsider its position and use its influential voice to advocate for peace, respect for international law and the protection of human rights. Science should be a force for progress and understanding, not complicit in acts that cause suffering and destruction.”

The PDF of the press release is available for download in English here and in German here.