Queen’s University’s commitment to divest from companies linked to Israel’s UN-condemned assault on Palestine falls “far short” of what was required, a protest group said.
The university made the commitment following discussions over several weeks with different organisations and after the occupation of part of the Lanyon Building.
Its vice chancellor also repeated a call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza while the university will offer sanctuary to academics and students from the region.
QUB’s Palestine Assembly, which organised Tuesday’s short occupation of Lanyon, said it welcomed the university’s condemnation of the targeting of hospitals and academic institutions.
But, the group added, the “statement falls far short of what is needed” as its members compared the Belfast university’s position to Trinity College in Dublin.
“Trinity has agreed, by comparison, to end all relationships with Israeli suppliers and to divest from all Israeli companies as well as those operating in the occupied Palestinian territories,” the group said in a statement.
“It has created a task force to review ties with all Israeli institutions, including academic and student exchanges, with the intention of ending them.”
The group added: “QUB’s Palestine Assembly insists that the university must begin with the question, ‘What are our responsibilities in the face of genocide?’
“At the very least, the immense suffering in Gaza demands of academic institutions worldwide complete transparency; unequivocal condemnation of genocide; unwavering solidarity with those experiencing scholasticide.”
Queen’s earlier this week said the “university will divest investments in companies that are listed by the UN Human Rights Council as carrying out listed activities in relation to Palestine”. The UN list covers both Gaza and the West Bank.
Vice Chancellor Professor Ian Greer added: “Once again, I call upon national political leaders to work with the negotiation teams to reach an agreement that will allow an immediate ceasefire, the release of the hostages and the urgent allocation of humanitarian aid in Gaza.”
The university will not take any action against students involved in the protest on Tuesday.
“[Tuesday’s] protest passed peacefully and respectfully and therefore those involved will not face any repercussions nor will the university be taking any further action,” a spokesperson said.
“Queen’s University is committed to freedom of thought and expression for students and staff within a framework of respect for the rights of other persons.”
