Open Letter: Confronting the IHU Scandal – The Need for Deep Reforms and Decisive Action

We, as scientists, doctors, or concerned citizens, demand the establishment of an independent scientific inquiry commission to evaluate these breaches and determine the necessary actions. At a minimum, we hope that those responsible for these serious ethical, scientific, and managerial failings will be removed from teaching, leadership, and supervisory roles to prevent the spread of these harmful research practices to young researchers and other research teams. The reputation of French research has already suffered significant damage due to these deviant practices and their tragic consequences. This global scandal, passively observed by supervisory bodies, governments, and the administration of Aix-Marseille University, has directly and indirectly cost many human lives. It is intolerable that empty statements and half-measures continue to prevail. The time has come for strong, exemplary, and coherent actions that meet societal expectations and address the stakes at hand. The French scientific community, supported by a truly independent commission, must take responsibility and determine the appropriate sanctions for these grave breaches, which sometimes border on criminal conduct.