Relevance of academic core values
Academic core values such as academic freedom and scientific integrity form the foundation for higher education and science in the Netherlands. Research in the Netherlands must be conducted in accordance with nationally and internationally accepted standards of scientific conduct. Respecting these core values is a prerequisite for full participation in the academic community.
Academic freedom is essential for the proper practice of science and is therefore legally guaranteed in the Higher Education and Research Act (WHW, only available in Dutch). The boundaries of academic freedom are determined by the level of compliance to five basic principles: honesty, diligence, transparency, independence and responsibility.
The Dutch knowledge sector has committed itself to national and international codes of conduct regarding scientific integrity. These codes therefore provide guidance for education and scientific practice in the Netherlands, including activities with foreign parties.