Recent demonstrations have brought to light the growing tension between students and academia regarding Israel’s actions. This week, the University of Cambridge severed ties with Russia following its invasion of Ukraine, but many students are questioning why the university has not taken similar action with regard to Israel. The calls for academic boycott against Israel are on the rise at prestigious universities worldwide, including in Berlin, where protesters have set up a tent and formed a human chain to prevent security forces from entering the area.
The Free University of Berlin administration called the police after protesters refused to engage in conversation and attempted to take over buildings on campus. The president emphasized that occupation is not acceptable and that academic discourse should be conducted in a different manner. Similar protests have taken place at other universities in Berlin and across Europe, with clashes between protesters, police, and pro-Israeli groups.
In Amsterdam, more than 3,000 people participated in a demonstration at the University of Amsterdam, leading to confrontations with police and incidents of violence. Protests have also been held at the University of Vienna, the University of Helsinki, and other institutions across Europe. In Paris, violent clashes occurred at Sciences Po University as protesters broke into buildings and disrupted exams.
These events highlight the growing divide between those who support academic ties with Israel and those who believe it is necessary to take a stand against its actions. While some argue that academic discourse should remain separate from politics, others believe that it is important to use their platform to advocate for change. As tensions continue to rise, it will be interesting to see how universities respond in the coming months and years.