Scientific research in Europe and beyond is likely to face an ever more complex and hostile environment in the coming decade. On the one hand, it is now more urgent than before for scientists to push back on those who are hostile to their core mission of free research. On the other hand, the risk of doing so is also increasing. Those who speak out are sometimes accused of spreading „woke“ propaganda and are even attacked as public „enemies“. It is therefore critical to create an environment in which scientists can raise their voices publicly and at the same time feel protected. Institutional neutrality is an instrument to achieve this.