Solidarity with the people in Iran

Karlsruhe, January 22, 2026 — At FIZ Karlsruhe, we are committed to the scientific principles of openness, respect and responsibility- These principles are at the core of our values. In these respects we find the current developments in Iran, where people are facing severe violence in response to peaceful protest, alongside extensive restrictions on digital communication and access to information, extremely alarming.

The reports, images, and enforced silences reaching us are deeply troubling. Several members of our organization are experiencing profound emotional distress: fearing for the safety of their families and friends, waiting anxiously for rare opportunities to communicate amid the digital blackout, and grieving the lives lost to violence. Bearing this sorrow while trying to sustain everyday life is an extraordinary burden. It calls for understanding and compassion.

We want to say loud and clear: our Iranian colleagues are not alone. We stand with them, we acknowledge their grief, and we recognize the heavy emotional toll of witnessing such events from afar. In moments like these, humanity, empathy, patience, and compassion are essential.

We are committed to a culture of solidarity at FIZ Karlsruhe. We encourage all colleagues to be attentive and compassionate, to offer support where possible, and to respect that grief, fear, and exhaustion may shape these days for our colleagues and friends who are directly affected. Our shared values of respect for human dignity and responsibility toward one another guide us in times of crisis. Standing together and showing care matters, especially now and in such moments.