The Academic Freedom Index (AFi)
The AFi assesses de facto levels of academic freedom across the world. covering 179 countries and territories, The AfI provides the most comprehensive dataset on the subject of academic freedom based on five indicators:
freedom to research and teach
freedom of academic exchange and dissemination
institutional autonomy
campus integrity
freedom of academic and cultural expression
The AFI rests on assessments by 2,363 country experts worldwide, standardized questionnaires, and a well-established statistical model, implemented and adapted by the V-Dem project. The V-Dem project is known for generating sound data on various dimensions of democracy. The Academic Freedom Index uses a Bayesian measurement model method for data aggregation: it not only provides so-called point estimates, but also transparently reports measurement uncertainty in the global assessment of academic freedom. We strongly recommend that users take this uncertainty into account when comparing scores between countries and over time. You can learn more about our research and the index on our website. In addition, this introductory article explains the index design in more detail.
Academic Freedom Index Explained
This short video introduces the main idea, concepts, and methodology behind the Academic Freedom Index.
The AFI project started in 2017 with a consultation funded by the Fritz Thyssen Foundation. It continued in 2019 when with support from OSF’s Higher Education Program, researchers at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, the V-Dem Institute, the Scholars at Risk Network, and the Global Public Policy Institute joined forces to develop the AFI, which was released in 2020. At present, V-Dem and FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg continue the project with a grant from the Volkswagen Stiftung.