A growing number of protests have been launched on campuses in the United Kingdom, with students taking inspiration from similar demonstrations at universities in the United States. At the University of Leeds, around 50 students launched their own encampment in support of a two-way arms embargo on Israel. The demonstrations have been met with a variety of reactions from university administrators, with some expressing support and others remaining neutral on the issue. Similar protests have been observed at universities such as University College London, the University of Warwick, and Newcastle University.
Not all students are supportive of the protest action, with some expressing concerns for their safety and others complaining that the demonstrations have impeded their studies. Jewish student associations have called for universities to ensure that campuses remain welcoming and inclusive to Jewish students, expressing concerns about a rise in antisemitism in the midst of the Israel-Hamas war. Some student protesters have rejected accusations of antisemitism, claiming that such accusations are being weaponized against them to dismiss criticisms of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Students like Elisa Lin, a master’s degree student studying public policy at Sciences Po, feel caught in the middle of mounting tensions on campus and have called for open dialogue and an end to blockades.
In France, student protests appear to be more peaceful compared to those in the U.S. As reported by Samuel Lejoyeux, who leads the Union of Jewish Students of France, there is an increased hunger for debate among students at French universities. Some protests in the U.S. have drawn accusations of antisemitism, with Jewish groups noting a rise in such incidents. However, student protesters, including Jewish participants, have rejected these accusations, claiming that they are being unfairly targeted. Elisa Lin and other students have called for an open dialogue between students and university administrations, as well as for an end to blockades and reprimanding those who have occupied buildings illegally on campus.
In Australia, demonstrations at the University of Sydney saw hundreds of people participating, with tensions rising as pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel supporters confronted each other. The protests reflect a global wave of support for Palestine and criticism of Israel’s actions in the wake of the conflict with Hamas. Students across different countries are calling for open dialogue, peaceful protests, and inclusive campuses that allow for a diversity of opinions and beliefs to be expressed. The demonstrations highlight the complex socio-political dynamics at play on campuses around the world and the challenges faced by students navigating these issues while maintaining a safe and conducive environment for learning and debate.
