The Vanishing Safeguard: Economic Forces Behind the Global Decline of Tenure in Higher Education

Abstract

Historically essential for academic freedom and job security in higher education, the tenure system is facing a global decline driven by economic pressures and neoliberal policies. This paper explores the historical development of tenure in the United States and worldwide, focusing on how financial constraints and market-oriented reforms are reshaping academic employment. The study highlights the reduction in tenure-track positions, increased reliance on adjunct (part-time) and contingent faculty, and the resulting challenges to academic freedom, research quality, and institutional stability. It also examines the impact of these trends on various regions, including Europe, Asia, and Australia, where similar shifts are occurring due to austerity measures and market-driven approaches. The paper argues for a balanced approach that maintains academic integrity while adapting to financial realities, providing insights into the broader implications for the future of higher education.