Protests erupted at Sciences Po in Paris, with students inspired by Gaza solidarity encampments at American campuses. The demonstration prompted administrators to move all classes online after protesters occupied a central campus building and blocked its entrance with various objects. The protest came two days after police disbanded a separate demonstration at the university’s amphitheatre, where some protesters refused to leave. The university condemned the student actions, stating they were disruptive to the institution’s proper functioning and penalized students, teachers, and employees. Administrators were meeting with a student delegation in an attempt to resolve the situation through dialogue.
The actions by the protesters were inspired by similar demonstrations at Columbia University and other campuses in the United States, although the protesters emphasized that their solidarity remained primarily with the Palestinian people. The protests in the US, including at Columbia University, have been ongoing for several days, with many students and professors being arrested during confrontations with law enforcement. Columbia University officials are negotiating with the protesters and have threatened other options if negotiations fail. While some schools have quickly called law enforcement to disperse demonstrations, others are allowing protests to continue.
Sciences Po, founded in 1871, has historically been a prominent institution for educating French leaders, politicians, and business leaders. Notable alumni include President Emmanuel Macron and Prime Minister Gabriel Attal. The university has been a focal point for the protests, with students demanding solidarity with the Palestinian people amidst the ongoing conflict with Israel. The actions by the protesters at Sciences Po have disrupted the university’s operations, leading to classes being moved online and administrative efforts to find a resolution through dialogue with students.
The protests at Sciences Po highlight the international impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict, with demonstrations spreading from the US to France. At Sciences Po, protesters were vocal in their support for the Palestinian cause, expressing solidarity through chants and placards. The actions by the students reflect a growing movement of global solidarity with Palestine and opposition to Israeli military actions in Gaza. The demonstrations have drawn attention to the issue of Palestinian rights and have become a platform for raising awareness and advocacy for the Palestinian people.
The escalation of the protests at Sciences Po and other universities reflects a broader trend of activism in response to global conflicts and social justice issues. While the actions have faced opposition from university administrators and law enforcement, the protesters remain committed to their cause. The ongoing demonstrations underscore the power of student activism in advocating for social and political change. As the protests continue, the students at Sciences Po and other campuses around the world are shaping the narrative around the Israel-Hamas conflict and demonstrating the importance of solidarity and collective action in addressing complex international issues.
