In a revealing exploration of power dynamics within academia, Hilde Van Liefferinge’s novel Academische gezelligheid has sparked a significant controversy surrounding a well-known professor at Ghent University accused of sexual misconduct. The book, which meticulously details the experiences of a PhD student and her abusive relationship with her mentor, has led to legal action from the professor in question, Carl Devos, who adamantly denies the allegations.
Fourteen years ago, Van Liefferinge approached the ombudswoman and the rector of Ghent University with her troubling account but felt her concerns fell on deaf ears. Now, she aims to bring to light the realities of abuse in academia through her literary work. "My goal is to create awareness, not to point fingers," Van Liefferinge stated in an interview, underscoring her intentions to highlight the complexities surrounding power misuse rather than merely to vilify individuals.
The narrative revolves around a young assistant, described as the ‘best racehorse in his stable’ by her professor, who navigates a precarious relationship characterized by manipulation and coercion. According to Van Liefferinge, the professor’s actions culminate in an encounter that blurs the lines of consent and authority, a scenario that often leaves victims feeling complicit in their trauma. “The so-called mutual consent is, according to me, at the heart of the story,” she explained, reflecting on the emotional turmoil faced by individuals ensnared in such dynamics.
In response to the publication, Carl Devos, via his lawyer Sanne De Clerck, has announced plans to pursue legal action against Van Liefferinge, claiming that her fictional work endangers his reputation. "This is a fiction book, where the author, although not naming my client, presents a narrative in such a way that readers can link his persona to one of the characters," De Clerck asserted. She emphasized the ethical breaches involved in using literary fiction as a medium for what they argue are unsubstantiated claims.
On March 24, 2025, the controversy gained further traction with a release on HUMO's website, marking a pivotal moment in how the academic community approaches allegations of misconduct. In an official statement, Rik Van de Walle, the current rector of Ghent University, expressed regret for the institutional failures that contributed to the silence surrounding such allegations. “The university must provide a safe working environment for all employees at all times,” he said. This acknowledgment denotes a shift towards accountability, though it surfaces long after the alleged incidents took place back in 2011.
Devos, who has served in various academic leadership roles at the university following the alleged incidents, refutes any claims that he has faced disciplinary action in his career, insisting there is no record of any complaints brought against him. He aims to clear his name through legal proceedings, arguing that allegations made through a work of fiction are not the avenue to handle such serious accusations. “We will take legal steps against the book; this is a matter of defamation,” he declared, vowing to address the issue in court rather than through public opinion.
The differing narratives presented by Van Liefferinge and Devos reflect urgent themes of power, consent, and trust within academic spheres. Van Liefferinge recounts her journey from feeling silenced to reclaiming her voice through her writing. She describes the process as a means not only of healing her own trauma but also of advocating for those who might feel similarly trapped. She noted, “In the eyes of the public, victims often process their trauma and years later still battle to find their voice.”
The story positioned in Academische gezelligheid does more than just reveal personal trauma; it highlights systemic issues prevalent in universities, where the hierarchical structures create environments ripe for abuse. Van Liefferinge insists that the responsibility lies heavily with those in power to maintain ethical boundaries, particularly with vulnerable individuals like PhD students who rely on their mentors for guidance and support.
The ongoing debate surrounding these sensitive issues continues to reverberate through Ghent University, with the community now tasked with reflecting on and addressing the failings revealed by Van Liefferinge's account. “We live in an expertocracy: when an academic speaks, everyone must listen,” Van de Walle acknowledged, emphasizing the need for robust measures to handle complaints and ensure safety for all university personnel.
The unfolding situation calls for not only a thorough examination of the events described but also an institutional commitment to prevent such occurrences in the future. Van de Walle has reinforced this promise, stating that he will engage with Van Liefferinge and the former staff members depicted in the book to foster dialogue and ensure judgement based on well-established facts.
Ultimately, the engagement sparked by this literary work is a vital step towards holding institutions accountable and ensuring that the voices of those previously silenced are heard. The complex interplay of trauma, consent, and authority insists that everyone—from academics to audiences—takes a hard look at how power is wielded in professional environments.
