At-risk scholars

In line with its commitment to Geneva’s tradition of intellectual asylum, the University of Geneva (UNIGE) supports academic freedom by welcoming at-risk scholars into its research units. Nearly 30 scholars, persecuted for their work or fleeing from conflict zones, have found refuge at UNIGE since 2011. The 2025 Free to Think Report by Scholars at Risk (SAR) highlights growing needs due to the numerous conflict zones and the rise authoritarian regimes worldwide.

In 2025, UNIGE is hosting nine at-risk scholars from Afghanistan, Yemen, Ukraine, and Haiti.

The hosting program for Endangered researchers

For whom?

The UNIGE program is open to scholars identified by the Scholars at Risk (SAR) network or who hold an asylum-related permit in Switzerland. It is meant for confirmed scholars, with a PhD or several years of university teaching experience, and several publications.

How ?

The Integration office receives applications from the scholar, a hosting unit, or SAR. It connects scholars with a potential hosting unit and prepares their arrival. Hosting terms vary depending on the situation, defined in collaboration with the faculty and hosting unit.

Funding?

The hosting can be co-financed by an SNSF-SAR grant and/or a UNIGE scholarship. UNIGE scholarships are funded by external donors, both private and public. Additional funding is requested from the faculty or hosting unit in all cases.

Who decides?

The Integration office prepares the applications, which are submitted for approval to the Committee for At-Risk scholars, chaired by the Vice-Rector for International Relations, Stéphane Berthet.