Ghent University Bans Accuser of Late Scholar Jason Arday from Teaching for 3 Months

A postdoctoral researcher at Ghent University has been barred from teaching for three months following an ongoing disciplinary review, though he retains his research position at the Belgian institution. Nathan Cofnas, an American academic whose work has drawn significant controversy, received the measure after a preliminary investigation was launched following the August 14 death of University of Cambridge sociologist Jason Arday. Ghent University confirmed it had imposed a three-month disciplinary measure requiring the researcher to work remotely and prohibiting teaching duties, while permitting strictly limited research activities aligned with his original appointment.

The American ambassador to Belgium, Bill White, publicly intervened in the case, claiming credit on social media for helping resolve Cofnas’s suspension, which he had previously criticized as “truly unacceptable.” In a series of posts on X, White stated that he had facilitated an “amicable agreement” between Ghent and Cofnas, allowing the researcher to complete his one-year appointment. Ghent University later acknowledged contact with the U.S. Embassy and noted it had received additional context regarding White’s public statements.

Cofnas, who previously faced criticism from Ghent’s philosophy department over his expertise and alleged “far-right agenda,” has remained a polarizing figure. In July, he publicly accused Jason Arday of plagiarism and raised questions about his biographical claims. Arday’s sudden death sparked wider scrutiny of Cofnas’s online writings, which have included controversial views on race and academic institutions. Ghent stated that an inquiry is ongoing to determine whether further disciplinary action is warranted.

Bill White, a prominent supporter of former U.S. President Donald Trump, had publicly urged Ghent University rector Petra De Sutter to lift Cofnas’s suspension, arguing that the move risked international attention. Cofnas expressed gratitude to White and the U.S. State Department, thanking them for “defending American values” after his suspension was lifted.

Cofnas has been associated with figures linked to race science and has criticized both Trump and the MAGA movement at times, while supporting certain policies such as free speech initiatives. In past writings, he argued that the right lacks the institutional capacity to govern effectively and criticized what he described as the degeneration of the Republican Party.

Ghent University declined further comment, stating that preliminary disciplinary proceedings must continue with respect for all parties involved.

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