The situation in Gaza is unacceptable — we all agree on that. We also share the indignation of the protesting students at our university. But we do not understand why they are targeting the university and the rectorate. According to the protesters, we are not doing enough to cut ties with Israel. That claim does not correspond to the facts.
Since the escalation in October 2023, the VUB has taken a clear stance. Just last week, together with all Belgian universities, we called for a suspension of the Association Agreement with Israel — which includes the Horizon projects. We have no direct collaborations with Israel, only through Horizon Europe, and every Horizon project with an Israeli partner has been thoroughly screened by the Ethics Committee for Dual Use, Misuse & Military Use (ECDMM). Currently, there are only three such projects ongoing. They are listed on our website — we are fully transparent about them. Previously, we were the only university to withdraw from a Horizon project, namely Multispin.AI. We have also taken initiatives to offer Palestinian students the opportunity to study with us. This academic year and the last, we have responded to a series of demands from the protesting students.
We do not support the fact that protesters have locked down the Braem building today. Colleagues trying to do their work are being obstructed, and the purpose of this — especially in the lead-up to the exam period — is unclear.
As rector, I call on the students to be reasonable and to engage in dialogue — without violence and without blockades. Only in this way can we move forward as an academic community. Because once again: we share the same indignation.