[Cancelled] Support the protest against higher education budget cuts on 14 November

Protest cancelled

The planned protest against the cuts in higher education on November 14 will not take place. This was announced by the municipality of Utrecht on Wednesday afternoon. 

Message from the Executive Board

We, the Executive Board, are disappointed that the demonstration will not take place and regret that the many students and colleagues who were prepared to protest against the drastic cuts in higher education will not have the opportunity to do so tomorrow. We find it terrible that all these people will now be unable make their voices heard collectively.

At the same time, we understand the difficult decision made by the organizing parties following the urgent advice of the local safety triangle in Utrecht. We know that the mayor of Utrecht values the right to demonstrate highly, but the safety of participants must be ensured.

We are aware of ongoing calls to still demonstrate on Thursday as originally planned, but we urge our students and staff not to participate in order to ensure everyone's safety.

As a board, we will continue our efforts to convey our message to the government: stop the cuts and prioritize the value of research and education. In the context of UNL, among others initiatives, we are exploring alternative ways to oppose the cuts.

On 14 November, employees and students of universities and universities of applied science will protest in Utrecht against the drastic budget cuts in higher education. We, the Executive Board and the deans, fully support this action and call on every student and employee of Utrecht University to join and make their voices heard. The Executive Board will also be present at the protest.  

For the future of education and research 

The planned budget cuts put the future of the Netherlands under pressure. Investing in science and innovation is vital to enable social change. A large turnout on 14 November will help reinforce our message to the government: halt the budget cuts and choose for the value of science instead. Together, we can send a clear message. 

Programme of the day 

The protest day is organised by the trade unions FNV and AOb, and partners such as WOinActie. The programme consists of several parts, including a demonstration that will leave from Moreelsepark at 13:00 and will end on Domplein. We hope for a high turnout. Also from the UU. 

Demonstrating during working or teaching time 

For those with questions about participating during working and/or teaching time: a guideline has been prepared on demonstrations and strikes, which also applies to this day. Check the guideline in advance if you plan to participate. 

Sign up and be heard 

You can register for the protest via the websites of FNV, AOb and others. You can also sign a petition and like and share UNL's (Universities of the Netherlands) LinkedIn posts (e.g. this post).  

Make your voice heard and bring colleagues and fellow students along! 

Executive Board and deans