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Abstract
This paper discusses the role and importance of academic freedom in the policy process. By way of case
studies, it is argued that academic freedom plays a crucial role in relation to the development of public
policies. We discuss this matter within a framework that allows the understanding of the relationship
between researchers and the intervening State, the corporate and non-government sectors with economic
or social interests in any particular intervention, the media, and citizens. We apply the framework to
recent cases that illustrate problems that have arisen. Moreover, we hypothesise that the problems have
become more acute since the start of the era of privatisation and new public management with research
agendas and targets often being increasingly set by policy makers. Finally, we draw some conclusions
about the role of researchers and institutes in relation to agricultural and rural matters in modern
democracies, arguing that freedom of speech and expression is an essential element in the policy role of
researchers.