We are convinced that all legal means should be used responsibly and transparently to expose offences against ethical behaviour.
It is necessary to consistently demand not only respect for the integrity of scientific work, but also the responsible use of public funds and entrusted property, otherwise academic institutions would deservedly lose public trust. Such a loss of trust would ultimately pose a serious threat to society as a whole.
We therefore call on all parties involved in the dispute to refrain from coercion and attacks in the public arena and for all allegations to be properly and transparently investigated. In the case that malpractices are proven, we demand that responsibility and consequences are taken so that the credibility of the academic community as a whole is not further damaged.