Brussels, 8 October 2024

AEPL's open letter to the Rector of the University of Lausanne

Dear Mr Frédéric Herman, Dear Rector of UNIL,

1) Introduction

The European Free Thought Association, AEPL (https://aepl.eu), was created in 2007 with the aim of supporting the European project and promoting and defending the principles born of the Age of Enlightenment, in particular freedoḿ of thought, conscience and opinion. In doing so, AEPL is in line with the European Charter of Fundamental Rights, which every Member State has a duty to respect.

AEPL, which is present in 23 EU countries, brings together citizens who, of all kinds and of all nationalities, origins, beliefs or non-beliefs, want in practical terms to lend their support to building Europe and "living together" within the Union. In short, to see the creation of a sense of belonging and citizenshiṕ enabling its nationals to share a peaceful future.

In this sense, AEPL, as a non-denominational organisation, advocates secularisḿ, i.e. the non-immixion of Religions in Politics. Secularisḿ in no way implies the rejection of Religions, but rather that of their instrumentalisation for political ends. With this in mind, AEPL, aware of the realities of the 21st century, also stands up against the rise of all forms of fundamentalism and extremism.

2) Purpose of the request

In 1937, the University of Lausanne (UNIL) awarded an honorary doctorate to Benito Mussolini, a decision that was controversial from the outset and continues to be so today. Given Mussolini's fascist actions and ideologies, it is imperative that UNIL withdraw this title for ethical, historical and moral reasons. This open letter argues for this action by examining the implications of the honour bestowed, academic values, and historical precedents.

Argument 1: Mussolini's actions and ideologies

Benito Mussolini, as leader of the Italian fascist regime, was responsible for numerous atrocities and human rights violations. His regime introduced racist policies, particularly against Jews, and conducted brutal military campaigns in Africa, causing considerable suffering and loss of life.[1]. By honouring Mussolini, UNIL seems to be ignoring or minimising these actions, which is unacceptable for an academic institution that should be promoting the values of justice and respect for human rights.

Argument 2: University Values

Universities are bastions of knowledge, ethics and truth. They have a responsibility to uphold high moral values and to serve as role models for society. By maintaining Mussolini's honorary title, UNIL is sending out a contradictory message about its values and its commitment to human rights and social justice.[2]. Withdrawing this title would be a strong symbolic act, reaffirming the university's commitment to these fundamental principles.

Argument 3: The Duty to Remember

The duty to remember is crucial if we are to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past. By withdrawing Mussolini's honorary doctorate, UNIL would be officially acknowledging the mistakes of the past and demonstrating its commitment not to repeat them.[3]. It would also serve as a warning to future generations about the dangers of totalitarian ideologies and human rights abuses.

Argument 4: Historical precedents

There are precedents for institutions withdrawing honours awarded to controversial figures. For example, several universities have withdrawn the DHC title awarded to Rudy Giuliani, Harvey Weinstein and Robert Mugabe, whose actions or ideologies were at odds with the institution's values.[4]. These actions show that it is possible and necessary to correct past mistakes in order to maintain the integrity and credibility of academic institutions.

3)    Conclusion

In conclusion, AEPL calls on the University of Lausanne to withdraw the title of Doctor Honoris Causa awarded to Benito Mussolini in 1937. This action is necessary to bring the university into line with its ethical values, to honour the duty to remember, and to follow historical precedents of correcting past errors. By taking this decision, UNIL would be sending a clear message about its commitment to justice, human rights and academic integrity.

Yours sincerely

 

                                                         On behalf of the AEPL Board of Directors,

                                                         (signed)

                                                         Guy T'hooft, Chairman of the AEPL

Distribution list

Addressee :

Frédéric Herman, Rector of UNIL

Copies to

Mrs Annemie Schaus, Rector of the ULB, Dhr. Jan Danckaert, Rector van VUB, Ms Anne-Sophie Nyssen, Rector of ULg, Dhr. Rik Van de Walle, Rector of Ugent, Françoise Smet, Rector of UCL

References

[1] UNIL - Doctorate Honoris Causa Benito Mussolini

[2] CIRE UNIL - Report on the Honorary Doctorate Benito Mussolini

[3] RTS - Honorary doctorate for Mussolini: the University of Lausanne "failed to deliver".

[4] RTS - UNIL acknowledges serious misconduct but does not withdraw doctorate