At a session of the Academic Council held on 25th January 2012, the parliament of the University of Bremen voted to uphold the so-called civilian clause. The university parliament thus continues to honor the principles of the resolution it passed in May 1986, which states that the university refuses to allow science and research to be used for military projects or anything connected with military aims. Any research topics which may possibly serve the purpose of armaments research are to be put up for discussion and where need be rejected.
Furthermore, the Academic Council stood by its resolution of 26th June 1991, whereby it remains expressly committed to research solely in civilian areas: “The University is committed to peace and pursues solely civilian objectives. This is an integral part of our guiding principles.”
The Resolution in full:
“The Academic Council continues to stand by the principles contained in Resolution No. 5113 (X/24th session held on 14th May 1986, in particular with regard to the rejection of all participation of science and research in activities that may serve military purposes: research topics and resources that may serve research in the area of armaments are to be put up for discussion and where need be rejected) and Resolution No. 5757 (XIII/6. Session held on 26.06.1991; the University of Bremen’s commitment to research solely for civilian purposes).The Academic Council reiterates: the University of Bremen is committed to peace and pursues solely civilian objectives. This is an integral part of our guiding principles.”
