UniverCity-European Day
Danger from disinformation and protection of scientific freedom –
Workshop, discussion, get-together

Bochum in the sign of europe

This year, May in Bochum will once again be all about Europe! As part of Bochum’s Europe Weeks, we cordially invite you to join us not only in celebrating the achievements of European democracies and the EU, but also to critically question what is at stake in times of growing anti-democratic tendencies. How can we maintain our shared values? And what does it take to stand up for a democratic, fair and free Europe? For this reason, we are dedicating 16 May 2025 to two core topics: Danger from disinformation & Protection of scientific freedom.

Workshop: Strong democracies through responsible citizens – empowerment against fake news in Europe

We all use the internet and social media to inform ourselves and exchange information. More and more often, however, false information is being deliberately disseminated in order to deceive and manipulate – so-called disinformation. Disinformation is a real threat to our European democracies! Because it prevents us as citizens from knowing the facts and being able to form an opinion on this basis, make decisions and really act in our own interests.

On 16 May from 2 to 5 pm, you will have the opportunity to learn how to deal with disinformation! How can you recognise whether a news item, image or video is fake? And what can you do if you come across disinformation on the internet or in your own environment? In the workshop of the ‘faktenstark’ project, a project of the Amadeu Antonio Foundation, the Bertelsmann Foundation and the codetect association, you will learn the necessary tools to stand up for a democratic Europe in both digital and analogue everyday life!

Places are limited. Registration is required by 14 May.

Panel discussion: Science under pressure – Who decides what can be researched?

In Germany, the practice of science as well as research and teaching are under the special protection of the Constitution – a central element of a democratic society. But what is the real status of scientific freedom in Europe? Because even in European democracies rising levels of scientific scepticism, hostility towards scientists or state influence can restrict scientists directly or indirectly in their work. What trends should we keep an eye on in order to preserve the autonomy and freedom of science? Scientists from Bochum report on their experiences and their view of things. Afterwards we will round off the evening together with snacks and music!

The evening will be hosted by Johannes Meyer, freelance journalist, presenter and format developer.

Admission from 6 pm – admission is free. Join us, ask your questions and let’s round off the evening together with music and snacks. We look forward to seeing you!

Support from the state initiative Europaschecks

The UniverCity Europe Day is a joint event organised by UniverCity Bochum e.V., the Protestant University of Bochum (EvH) and the City of Bochum.
The UniverCity-European Day is supported by the State Initiative Europa-Schecks of the Minister for Federal and European Affairs, International Affairs and Media and Head of the State Chancellery of North Rhine-Westphalia.