Donald Trump's ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, has called for Ghent University to reinstate American academic Nathan Cofnas, who was suspended following accusations of plagiarism against the late Cambridge professor Jason Arday. White stated that the suspension was a violation of free speech and that the issue had the full attention of the Trump administration.
In an email to Ghent University, White urged the institution to "explore a way to rescind this decision and to ensure Nathan's continued employment," describing Cofnas as a "well-respected Jewish American professor." The ambassador characterized his email as a "respectful and diplomatic attempt" to de-escalate the situation.
In a statement on X, the United States Mission to Belgium condemned Ghent University's "retaliation" against Cofnas for his "whistleblower reporting on academic fraud." White asserted that "dishonest, corrupt institutions" are not desirable partners for the U.S. government, especially when they "reward scapegoating mob behavior" or punish reporting on academic dishonesty. The mission is reviewing its relationships with Ghent University.
White argued that free speech protects controversial views and that Cofnas's perspectives were known to Ghent University when he was hired. He maintained that Cofnas was exercising free speech by uncovering academic dishonesty.
Nathan Cofnas, who specializes in the philosophy of biology, was suspended by Ghent University on Thursday. The university confirmed the suspension followed a "preliminary disciplinary investigation," adding that it "opposes discrimination, hatred and racism." University officials stated that while academic freedom is important, it is "not unlimited" and can be restricted to protect others' rights.
Cofnas had previously shared plagiarism allegations against Jason Arday, a sociology of education professor at the University of Cambridge, in a Substack post last month. Arday, who was hired in 2023 as the youngest Black professor at Cambridge, was found dead at his London home on Friday. The 41-year-old had resigned from his position following scrutiny over the plagiarism claims.
Cofnas wrote on Friday that he had become "the scapegoat in the Jason Arday affair" and had been "smeared as a racist." He stated he had received death threats and faced accusations of targeting Arday, which he claims are easily refuted. He noted that speakers at a vigil for Arday denounced him by name.
Cambridge University had initially stated that plagiarism claims regarding Arday's thesis and publications were investigated by Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) and the relevant journals. LJMU, which awarded Arday his PhD in 2015, concluded he had not plagiarized. However, Cambridge announced an independent investigation into his appointment last week. Arday resigned, stating his decision should not be seen as an acceptance of the narratives surrounding him.
Mr. Arday's death has been referred to the Coroner for the Inner South District of Greater London, with no immediate cause of death provided. An investigation will determine if an inquest will be held.