Former French President François Hollande has expressed immediate support for this initiative, emphasizing its importance in light of the current challenges faced by researchers.

This initiative is viewed as a crucial step toward defending academic freedom and scientific diplomacy, contributing to the preservation of democratic values.

The proposal includes establishing a scientific refugee status to protect researchers threatened by authoritarian regimes, which is vital for maintaining democratic discourse and advancing knowledge.

Aix-Marseille University in France has received nearly 300 applications for its Safe Place For Science program, which aims to provide 'refugee status' to U.S.-based researchers affected by funding cuts under the Trump administration.

Critics argue that the Trump administration's actions against universities threaten academic freedom, leading to an oppressive atmosphere that has prompted many scholars to seek asylum abroad.

The initiative plans to allocate between €600,000 and €1 million per faculty chair over three years to cover salaries and related expenses, with additional regional support for accompanying families.

The applications received often include alarming testimonies about the stifling of crucial research and the banning of scholars from conferences and publications.

Concerns have been raised about delays in government funding announcements, which impact universities awaiting state support for scientific initiatives.

Despite the urgency of the situation, officials from the Ministry of Higher Education and Research have indicated that legislative processes may delay implementation until 2026.

More than 10 European universities have expressed interest in starting similar programs to attract U.S. talent, reflecting a broader commitment to supporting researchers amid the current climate.

A survey published in Nature indicates that over 75% of American researchers are considering relocating to Canada or Europe due to funding cuts and oppressive conditions, highlighting a potential brain drain from the U.S. academic landscape.

Funding for these projects may include up to 50% financial support from the French government under the France 2030 plan, alongside contributions from local authorities and the private sector.