Middle East Librarians Association

The International Studies in Higher Education Act, H.R. 3077, includes provision for an International Education Advisory Board to be established in the U.S. Department of Education. Despite the assertions of Congressman Boehner (the bill's sponsor) to the contrary, it is widely feared in the library community that the board's powers will be interpreted so as to give it undue influence over curricula and the awarding of grants, thus undermining academic freedom in the United States.

The bill passed the House in October 2003 and was referred to the Senate, where it is pending in the Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions. No action is currently scheduled but movement could take place quickly, so we need to watch closely for developments.

For more information see:

Congressman Boehner's position paper, an article in the Yale Daily News, November 6, 2003, the position paper by the Association of American Colleges and Universities, and the resolution of the City of New York Faculty Senate.