Ghent (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): Around 100 protesters gathered at Ghent University, criticizing Rector Rik Van de Walle for insufficient action against partnerships with Israeli organizations linked to human rights issues.
The new school year at Ghent University has started with protests about the university’s partnerships with Israeli organizations. This issue caused tensions last year and is still a big topic among activists. About 100 protesters gathered at the UFO building at 3 p.m., continuing their occupation of the site for several weeks. They want the university to take a stronger position on its ties with Israeli institutions, which they believe are connected to human rights issues. The protesters have criticized the university for not doing enough to address their concerns.
What actions will Ghent University take in response to protests against Israeli partnerships?
The protest is part of a larger movement asking for openness and ethical responsibility in academic partnerships, especially with institutions involved in controversial political situations. The ongoing occupation and protests show the rising frustration of students and activists who want Ghent University to rethink its partnerships and take stronger action. Even with the protests, the university hasn’t made a clear decision yet, which is making the activist community even more unhappy.
At the protest outside Ghent University’s UFO building, activists held a symbolic demonstration during the rector’s opening speech. They formed a “guard of honour” at the entrance to target the people arriving for the event. As attendees came closer, the activists shouted, “Genocide does not take a holiday,” to express their opposition to the university’s partnerships with Israeli organizations.
Tensions rose during the ‘Procession of Togati’ ceremony with the rector and important people from the university. Protesters blocked the entrance, so the officials couldn’t get in. They eventually found another way inside, but the protest still drew attention to worries about the university’s links with Israeli groups. The activists showed their feelings by putting red paint on their hands and wearing masks of rector Van de Walle, saying UGent isn’t doing enough to stop these partnerships and is just passing the problem to Europe.
