Photo Guy Ackermans On April 21st, 2025, Harvard University filed a lawsuit against Trump’s administration, because the situation simply got unconstitutional. I then wonder, can Dutch Universities do the same? Amidst the conundrum of a coalition deciding how to rule the country, there are few points that should not be overlooked from the legal perspective.
First, the discriminatory implications of the budget cuts limiting the access to education to people with special needs. A limited budget for education could potentially impact the governmental support to people with disabilities, which will drastically impact while unfairly limiting their professional and personal development. Second, educational institutions will be forced to increase their tuition fees, which severely impacts the access for students coming from low-income backgrounds. Third, cutting off a budget also limits resource availability destined for research and education, in other words shortage of personal and funds to work.
I am certain there are other points that will negatively impact the progress of science and education in the country, not to mention the lives of thousands of people. Harvard University has spoken loud and clear by challenging a government that has painstakingly been violating constitutional rights and laws. Harvard is honouring its motto ‘veritas’. I think Wageningen can explore the potential of humans to improve the quality of our societies.
Willy Contreras-Avilés (34) is a second-year PhD candidate in Horticulture and Biochemistry of medicinal cannabis, from Panama. He likes to dance (perrear), cook Italian food, and swim.
