In the academic corridors of Ghent University (UGent), a storm is brewing over allegations of inappropriate behavior against Professor Carl Devos. The controversy erupted following the publication of Hilde Van Liefferinge's novel, Academische gezelligheid (Academic Coziness), which is set to launch on March 26, 2025. The book hints at a cover-up by the university involving a case of alleged misconduct against a doctoral student relating to a prominent professor, raising questions about the institution's commitment to safeguarding its students.
On March 24, 2025, the website of Humo released an article that elaborated on claims presented in Van Liefferinge’s book, which is described as a fictional narrative based on real events and characters. Although the professor's name is not explicitly mentioned, the descriptions lead readers to suspect Devos’s involvement—something that his legal counsel is now disputing vehemently.
Devos's attorney, Sanne De Clerck, has publicly stated that the book damages her client’s reputation in an “unacceptable and profound way.” “We will take legal action,” De Clerck declared, framing the situation as one of defamation. “This is a matter of slander, and we will confront this debate where it belongs: in court.” She alleges that the author of the book is spreading “false accusations” through a literary medium and that the responsibilities of fiction should not extend to harming a real person's reputation.
Van Liefferinge’s fictional account describes an instance that begins as an innocent embrace but escalates into a sexual assault. The professor, allegedly responding to this claim, mentioned “mutual consent” to the university's ombudswoman, a defense that adds layers to the already contentious narrative. In an exclusive interview with Humo, Van Liefferinge argued that the term “mutual consent” is part of the larger narrative of power dynamics at play, suggesting that genuine consent cannot exist in such unequal situations.
“Those relationships are inherently unequal, with significant responsibility resting on the powerful party to enforce boundaries. Real consent cannot exist in a situation where one party has leverage over the other,” Van Liefferinge explained. Her intention, as she states, is to raise awareness of how abuse of power often occurs within academic circles, rather than merely aiming to vilify an individual.
UGent’s rector, Rik Van de Walle, responded to the mounting allegations by offering an apology for the university’s failure to provide a safe working environment, admitting that the their handling of past cases was inadequate. “Although these events took place during a time when I was not the rector, I believe it is my duty today to acknowledge that we failed as an institution, and I apologize on behalf of the university.” Van de Walle further expressed that every serious report of inappropriate conduct deserves investigation. Remarkably, the rector confirms that he will invite the book's author for discussions, as well as the implicated professor, the former rector, and other involved academic staff to explore the situation in depth.
Notably, it was revealed that the alleged incidents date back to 2011 and, due to the passing of time, are now barred from formal scrutiny under university regulations, a fact that complicates and casts shadows on the entire situation. Furthermore, Van de Walle noted that multiple reports have surfaced over 15 years that include allegations of intimidation, abuse of power, physical misconduct, and other infractions against Devos, yet he stated that there was never any disciplinary action pursued against him. Furthermore, he emphasized, “The potential reputational damage should never prevent us from forwarding matters for further investigation,” he asserted.
Advocate De Clerck stresses the necessity of addressing the legal implications of such public accusations: “Without a formal complaint at the time, allegations cannot be governed by reality in any way, and even after 14 years, these false claims refrain from going through an unbiased judicial process.” She challenges the narrative presented in the book, especially considering that, as she puts it, Devos has never once faced a disciplinary measure throughout his career.
The university community is now left grappling with the implications of these revelations. Faculty, students, and alumni are voicing their concerns and pushing for answers as both sides prepare for an impending court battle. As legal consultations rush forward, the confrontation will certainly be critical in determining both the personal fates of those involved and the integrity of Ghent University itself. The upcoming conversations planned to discuss the investigation into Devos's conduct will take place amidst an increasingly charged atmosphere.
In summary, the narrative wrapped within Hilde Van Liefferinge's novel serves as a catalyst for broader discussions on power dynamics, the necessity for accountability within academic institutions, and the struggles faced by individuals whenever they attempt to report misconduct. As this case unfolds in the public eye, it is clear that the perspectives voiced by both supporters and detractors of Devos are bound to shape the discourse surrounding gender, justice, and ethics within the university community.
