Occupation Drift 13

On Monday 19 May, one of our university buildings (Drift 13) was occupied by protesters demanding that Utrecht University sever all ties with Israeli institutions. This occupation followed a protest lasting several days in the courtyard of the university library. Due to unacceptable safety risks and disruption of educational activities, the occupation was ended on Monday evening. Unfortunately, this required the assistance of the police.

Protesting is part of our democracy, and part of our university. The Executive Board has therefore allowed the protest in the courtyard of the university library over the past week and a half, based on clear agreements. There are various ways to engage in dialogue and be heard within Utrecht University, such as through student representation. The Executive Board listens to all opinions and carefully considers them in its decision-making. You do not need to occupy a building to be heard.

During protests in and around our buildings, we always consider different rights: the right to protest, freedom of expression, the right to education, and our responsibility for physical and social safety. This is a complex balancing act that requires careful decisions. Utrecht University is always responsible for the safety of everyone on our premises, including activists occupying a building or outdoor space.

Courtyard of the University Library and Drift 13

During the protest in the courtyard of the university library and the occupation of Drift 13, a constant balance was sought between the different rights of activists, students and staff. The two protests were fundamentally different. During the occupation of Drift 13, education was disrupted, security guards were denied access to the building and fire doors were tied together. Later, it also became apparent that emergency staircases had been blocked and windows had been tied shut. Despite discussions with the activists and repeated requests to leave the building voluntarily, these requests were not complied with. The Executive Board therefore felt compelled to reclaim the building. Under police supervision, Drift 13 was cleared around 7 p.m.

‘We understand that our students and colleagues are watching the events in Gaza with horror,’ said Anton Pijpers, president of Utrecht University. ’The concerns about the humanitarian suffering are also deeply felt within the board. We share the dismay about the ongoing violence and the lack of prospects for a peaceful solution. Authoritative scientific research now speaks of genocidal violence. The recent actions of the Israeli government, including the blockades of food and aid and the forced displacement of residents, have prompted us to tighten our policy on collaboration.

‘We will continue to discuss difficult issues’

‘Precisely because we understand what students and staff are concerned about, we have allowed peaceful action to take place in the courtyard for a long time,’ said Anton Pijpers. ‘But an occupation carries risks that we cannot ignore. We understand that ending the occupation will stir up emotions. At the same time, we must take responsibility for a safe environment in which education and research can continue.’

‘We will continue to engage in dialogue on difficult social issues, both within and outside the university. We invite our students and staff to make their voices heard through the existing channels, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and safety. Yesterday, I also invited the activists several times to continue the dialogue.’