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University of Ghent to cease all collaboration with Israeli institutions

Friday 31 May 2024, By The Brussels Times with Belga

Ghent University (UGent) plans to end all partnerships with Israeli institutions, citing serious human rights violations and breaches of international law in Gaza, according to chancellor Rik Van de Walle.

Pro-Palestinian activists have occupied the UFO building at UGent for several weeks, demanding a comprehensive boycott against Israeli academic bodies. Hundreds of students have set up encampments in the building’s entrance hall, hoisting flags in protest.

Van de Walle had asked the university’s human rights commission to review all cooperations with Israeli universities and research centres, to bolster Ghent University’s human rights policy. Previously, the university terminated three contracts involving Israeli organisations suspected of involvement in human rights violations……………………………………………

UGent explained that the connection with other organisations or authorities prevents further cooperation. “UGent doesn’t want to be implicated in the very serious human rights and international law violations in Gaza… [or] cooperate with partners involved in these serious human rights violations,” the Flemish institution declared.

The university’s human rights commission – support by the chancellor – advises that for ongoing projects, the consortium should ascertain whether collaboration with the Israeli partner can be ended and take appropriate measures. If this isn’t feasible, “UGent must take the necessary steps to withdraw from the project” itself……..  https://www.brusselstimes.com/1070115/university-of-ghent-to-cease-all-collaboration-with-israeli-institutions

June 4, 2024 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Education