Freedom around the Edges: The Coproduction of Knowledge and Risk in Yemen

Abstract

This article explores internal and external forces shaping the coproduction of knowledge and risk in Yemen, particularly under current conditions of conflict. It documents the targeting of public and independent research institutions by conflict actors. Significant research on Yemen is currently produced outside of the academy. We must consider the broader intellectual freedom of those who currently conduct research without access to the advocacy networks of academic associations like the Middle East Studies Association’s Committee on Academic Freedom. Such research entails risk to its producers, while helping to expand what we know and how we know it. This is illustrated by a counterintuitive example from recent policy research on displacement.