Strasbourg University, where sociologist Pinar Selek is completing her doctoral dissertation in political science, has firmly embraced her cause.

Strasbourg University President Alain Beretz, who issued two declarations of support for Selek before and after her trial on January 24, assembled university personal, elected, lab directors, department chairs and the student representatives in the University Palace
(Palais Universitaire) on Friday, January 25.

Beretz, echoing his declaration after the trial, stated during the talk that, “Pinar Selek will continue to pursue her work as a free researcher.”

Beretz claimed the latest decision was illegitimate, stating: “Pinar Selek is under the protection of the university, no one can touch her before dealing with the university. We are supporting our researcher. No matter what happens, we will never surrender her. Independent of the result or how long the process takes, we will not leave her side for even a moment. Whoever wants to get to her will first have to go through us.” Pinar Selek, who was in attendance at the gathering, received extended applause and gratitude from the crowd.

Strasbourg University Vice Chancellor Francis Kern, together with four university representatives, attended Selek’s January 24 trial. After the decision was announced, the president, Beretz expressed his reaction via press release.

Translation: Müge Fazlıoğlu