PEN Bangladesh has expressed concern over what it described as the growing use of forced retirement, suspension, dismissal, removal from teaching duties and threats of investigation against university teachers, calling for greater protection of academic freedom and due process.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the organization referred to recent disciplinary actions involving teachers at the University of Dhaka, Jahangirnagar University, the University of Asia Pacific and the National University, saying the developments had raised questions about academic freedom and procedural fairness.
PEN Bangladesh said universities have a responsibility to investigate credible allegations of misconduct, intimidation, discrimination or involvement in violence.
However, it said accountability should be ensured through impartial and lawful procedures rather than becoming a tool for political retaliation.
The organization said no teacher should face disciplinary action solely on the basis of political affiliation, scholarly interpretation, classroom discussion or lawful expression.
It emphasized that disciplinary proceedings should be impartial, evidence-based and conducted in accordance with university statutes.
According to the statement, teachers facing disciplinary action should receive written allegations, access to relevant evidence, an opportunity to respond and the right to appeal.
It also said public or political pressure should not replace established institutional procedures.
PEN Bangladesh referred to Article 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of thought, conscience and expression, and cited the Unesco Recommendation concerning higher-education teaching personnel, which recognizes academic freedom, institutional autonomy and procedural safeguards.
The organization called on the authorities concerned to review disputed disciplinary actions and establish transparent national safeguards to protect academic freedom in higher education.
PEN Bangladesh said accountability for wrongdoing is essential but should be pursued through fair and transparent procedures.
It added that universities should remain places where ideas can be debated and differing views expressed without fear of reprisal.
