Political Pressures on Political Science Research and Teaching

This panel aims to examine the growing political pressures shaping political science research and teaching across both democratic and non-democratic contexts. More specifically, we explore especially how polarization, government intervention, funding constraints, public scrutiny, and debates over academic freedom influence research agendas, methodological choices, classroom practices, and institutional governance. Drawing on timely case studies, as well as on comparative and interdisciplinary perspectives, the discussions intend to identify and analyze the challenges and opportunities scholars face in maintaining intellectual independence while engaging with increasingly politicized environments. We look particularly for papers treating good practices and strategies for safeguarding academic freedom, fostering pluralism, and preserving the role of political science and civic education as a critical and evidence-based discipline. The debates also encourage reflection on the responsibilities of scholars, universities, and professional associations in defending the autonomy and public relevance of political science. Selected contributions are invited to be further developed as part of a collective volume within the newly relaunched RC33 book series