The aim of the VU Programme for Academic Freedom is to offer a safe haven and inspiring working place for research, teaching and training. A university department offers the scholars a visiting position and includes the scholar in regular departmental activities. Depending on the career stage of the scholar, she/he can do academic research, PhD studies or applied research on behalf of others. Most work takes place at a low profile due to security issues on scholars at risk / refugee scholars. UAF organises an annual meeting between scholars based in The Netherlands and Belgium and the coordinators at the host institutions. Newcomers are being introduced in the university by the coordinator and academic host. The average stay at this university is between 12 and 15 months (so far).