In November 6, 2024, Minister of Higher Education and Research, Patrick Hetzel, visited the Elysée Palace. On the same day, outside the Sorbonne, the recipients of the 2024 promotion of the Institut universitaire de France gathered to read out loud a speech they were not authorized to deliver to the Minister of Higher Education and Research. These 68 researchers and professors were selected by an international jury for the exceptional quality of their work and wanted to express their concerns regarding the Minister’s actions and positions. Since his appointment as Minister on September 21 within Michel Barnier’s government, Hetzel, a former MP of Les Républicains (LR), has generated controversy.
On October 18, the group of researchers, in their attempt to convey their message to Hetzel, wanted to address their “deep concern, aroused by [his] implications and positions.” One of the issues that sparked controversy was Hetzel’s appearance at the congress of UNI, a right-wing student union, on October 12. This union did not endorse Emmanuel Macron in the 2022 presidential election against Marine Le Pen. Additionally, on November 1, Hetzel expressed regret on CNews that the director of Sciences Po had temporarily lifted the suspension of four students accused of filming a protest during a career forum that criticized French companies’ involvement in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Hetzel’s personal view was that these students should be expelled. Since becoming Minister, Hetzel has emphasized a need for firmness and highlighted the importance of universities not being used for political purposes. He also criticized the decision of the board of Sciences Po Strasbourg to sever ties with the Israeli university Reichman, considering it a political stance. By examining Hetzel’s past actions and statements, it is evident that he has been a proponent of conservative ideals, opposing same sex marriage, extension of assisted reproduction methods to single women and lesbian couples, and even the constitutionalization of the right to abortion.
His interest in allowing the use of hydroxychloroquine before clinical trial results during the Covid-19 pandemic has raised eyebrows within the scientific community. Despite these controversies, Hetzel continues to stand by his beliefs and has invoked legal principles in his decisions as Minister. By taking a hardline stance on certain issues, he has faced pushback from various sectors, including academia. The controversy surrounding Hetzel’s actions and statements reflects the broader political and ideological divisions within French society.
As Hetzel’s tenure as Minister continues, it remains to be seen how his policies and decisions will impact the higher education and research landscape in France. The dissenting voices within academia and the scientific community are likely to keep a close eye on his actions and advocate for their positions. The tensions between political ideologies and academic freedom are likely to persist, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the intersection of politics and higher education. Amidst these challenges, the importance of maintaining academic integrity and upholding the values of research and education remains paramount.
