Programme cancelled 

This afternoon’s gathering in the Aula was disrupted in an unacceptable manner. Demonstrators prevented others from speaking. Although the organisers gave them space to voice their concerns, they nevertheless continued chanting slogans. Despite repeated calls to end their protest in order to allow the programme — on the social value of education — to continue, the demonstrators refused to comply. 

It was particularly painful that, shortly before the disruption, Rector Peter-Paul Verbeek had explicitly called on the academic community in his speech to seek connection and to ensure that everyone at the UvA can feel safe and heard. 

The University of Amsterdam does understands that demonstrators wish to speak out and be heard regarding the situation in Gaza and respects and facilitates everyone’s right to protest. We also share the concerns about the ongoing violations of international law and the disproportionate violence affecting the civilian population in Gaza. At the same time, the University must safeguard both a socially and physically safe study and working environment, and be a place that offers space for everyone. Unfortunately, that was not the case today.