Akademisches Netzwerk Osteuropa (akno e.V.) wishes
to express its deep solidarity with the German Association for East European Studies (DGO)
following its recent classification as an "undesirable organization" by the General
Prosecutor's Office of the Russian Federation on February 14, 2024.
The DGO plays
a significant role in promoting scientific and societal dialogue, as well as cooperation in
Eastern Europe, by making a valuable contribution to understanding and exchange between
countries and regions.
The classification as an "undesirable organization"
constitutes a serious attack on the fundamental principles of academic freedom and
international exchange. It signifies a restriction on the activities of the DGO and its
partners, exposing them to an increased risk of political persecution in
Russia.
As Akademisches Netzwerk Osteuropa (akno e.V.), we strongly condemn the
inclusion of the DGO in the list of "undesirable organizations." We stand firmly by the side
of the DGO and will continue our close cooperation uninterrupted. Together with our
partners, we will continue to advocate for the values of academic freedom and the free
exchange of ideas and information across disciplinary, linguistic, and national boundaries.