  While sanctions in political and economic areas are now part of the standard
repertoire of Western countries (not always endorsed by UN mandates), sanctions
in science and culture in general are new. Historically, fundamental research
as conducted at international research centers such as CERN has long been seen
as a driver for peace, and the Science4Peace idea has been celebrated for
decades. However, much changed with the war against Ukraine, and most Western
science organizations put scientific cooperation with Russia and Belarus on
hold immediately after the start of the war in 2022. In addition, common
publications and participation in conferences were banned by some institutions,
going against the ideal of free scientific exchange and communication.
  These and other points were the topics of an international virtual panel
discussion organized by the Science4Peace Forum together with the "Natural
Scientists Initiative - Responsibility for Peace and Sustainability" (NatWiss
e.V.) in Germany and the journal "Wissenschaft und Frieden" (W&F) (see the
Figure). Fellows from the Hamburg Institute for Peace Research and Security
Policy (IFSH), scientists collaborating with the large physics research
institutes DESY and CERN, as well as from climate and futures researchers were
represented on the panel.
  In this Dossier we document the panel discussion, and give additional
perspectives.
  The authors of the individual sections present their personal reflections,
which should not be taken as implying that they are endorsed by the
Science4Peace Forum or any other organizations. It is regrettable that some
colleagues who expressed support for this document felt that it would be unwise
for them to co-sign it.
