28 March 2025

Last Wednesday the screening and a discussion about a controversial film ‘Russians at War’ took place. We were contacted by students, colleagues and valued partners with concerns over the film and requests to cancel the event, and we saw many reactions - both positive and negative - on social media. It was a difficult decision. Many of the concerns were in our eyes legitimate. On the other hand, the university must remain a space where its members can initiate debates, raise issues and discuss sensitive material freely. It is a fundamental academic value. Needless to say, the discussions must be academically sound, well informed, respectful and unbiased. We believe that the event managed to achieve these objectives, touching upon issues like disinformation, propaganda, ethics in documentary making, and soldiers in war.

The film screening was preceded by brief, critical introductions from Koen Caminada, dean of the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs, and Giles Scott-Smith, dean of Leiden University College, who reflected on the gravity of the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine and the immense suffering it has caused. It was followed by a panel session, made up of academic staff members of Leiden University and the movie’s director, Anastasia Trofimova, which was moderated by Maja Vodopivec. The panelists reflected on the content of the film as well as its context, and raised questions about the message that the film might try to convey. Several audience members asked questions and shared concerns, and these were discussed in a respectful manner.

We are reflecting on the meaning of this event and the impact it has had on our community. Before the film, about 30 people gathered outside the university location for a peaceful protest in support of Ukraine. We appreciate all who shared their concerns with us, and for the peaceful and respectful nature of the protest.

We have learned a lot in the past few days, and we will continue to process and reflect on this event, its impact, and the way we handled it. The initial communications about the event lacked reference to the sensitivities around the film, and the role of other parties complicated it further. These issues were discussed by the academic panel, which assessed the film and the process around it critically. We remain committed to engaging in conversation with wider society outside the university and will be thinking hard about how we can do this while fulfilling our responsibilities as an academic institution.

We are grateful to the community within Leiden University College and the Faculty of Governance and Global Affairs as well as the wider Leiden University community for the patience and tact with which they engaged with this difficult and emotionally sensitive matter.