A look back at Rüdiger Frohn: A life in the service of justice!

A look back at Rüdiger Frohn: A life in the service of justice!

Rüdiger Frohn, born in 1950, has taken an important path in life that took him from the Ruhr University in Bochum to the highest levels of German politics. After studying law at the University of Bochum, where he emphasizes that the training did not require private tutors, Frohn began his career as a judge in 1979. This academic foundation created an excellent basis for his later political career, which began in the 1980s.

His political career took off in 1985 when he was transferred to the North Rhine-Westphalia State Chancellery under Prime Minister Johannes Rau. Just a decade later, in 1995, he became State Secretary and Head of the State Chancellery. From 1999 to 2004, Frohn was head of the Federal President's Office. During this time he was not only responsible for running the office, but also for representing Germany in various social and political matters.

Advice for the future generation

Looking back on his time as a student, Frohn gives important advice to current students. He believes it is crucial to encourage curiosity and critical thinking. He emphasizes that students should set clear goals and pursue them diligently. He also points out the responsibility that comes with academic freedom and social engagement. During his time at the Ruhr University, the training not only promoted legal knowledge, but also awareness of the social impact of law.

Frohn fondly remembers his studies, which were characterized by intensive work in the law library and peer learning. The highlights were not only the academic challenges, but also the gatherings with fellow students who celebrated together and enjoyed good food in the cafeteria. Such experiences shaped not only his academic career, but also his human development.

Academic freedom and responsibility

Academic freedom, a term deeply rooted in the history of universities, describes not only freedoms but also responsibilities for universities, teachers, administration and students. This term has historical roots in the ancient Platonic Academy and continued to develop over the centuries, particularly during the Reformation and the Enlightenment. In Germany, this principle was anchored in the Basic Law, where it certifies the freedom of research and the freedom of study.

Particular attention is paid to the current situation of academic freedom in Germany, which has fallen to 27th place in the Academic Freedom Index 2025. This raises questions regarding the independence of universities, especially in the context of public and private financing models. According to the Basic Law, universities are autonomous, which allows them a certain degree of freedom in appointing new professors and in financial planning. However, this autonomy must be weighed against potential dependencies, such as third-party funding, which could endanger academic freedom.

Frohn expresses the wish that the Ruhr University Bochum will continue to exist as a support tower for the future, scientific excellence and educational equality in the coming years. He would like to see continued commitment to the Ruhr region and also to the global challenges that are particularly relevant today. This represents hope not only for the university, but also for the future generation of students.