Criticism of Pro-Palestinian Meetings at Hamburg University
Hamburg, January 30 – The Christian Democratic Students (RCDS) group has leveled serious accusations against the University of Hamburg, claiming it has provided rooms to pro-Palestinian organizations. This comes amidst reports of alleged downplaying of Hamas atrocities and concerns about antisemitism on campus.
RCDS Raises Concerns Over University Room Usage
The RCDS, a student parliamentary faction, alleges that pro-Palestinian organizations have used university rooms on 15 separate occasions. Hendrik Jensen, parliamentary leader of the RCDS, stated that during these events, atrocities committed by the Hamas terrorist organization were allegedly downplayed. The RCDS is also actively supporting the establishment of the first Jewish university group in Hamburg.
AStA’s Unauthorized Provision of Rooms
The rooms in question were reportedly provided by the AStA (General Students’ Committee), despite an instruction prohibiting them from doing so. According to NDR 90.3, this instruction is not on file at the AStA, suggesting it may not have been properly recorded.
RCDS Criticizes Hamburg’s Science Senator
The RCDS holds Hamburg’s Science Senator, Maryam Blumenthal (Greens), responsible for the situation. “We criticize the university leadership and, above all, the Senator for not being assertive enough in preventing such events from taking place here at the university,” said a representative of the RCDS. The university, however, asserts that it has never provided rooms to antisemitic organizations and strongly condemns all forms of antisemitism.
Call for Greater Protection for Jewish Students
Amidst these developments, anonymous testimonies from Jewish students have emerged, describing antisemitic incidents and an atmosphere of exclusion and intimidation on campus. Jensen is now demanding increased protection for Jewish students. “Because I am personally told that they no longer dare to come to campus because there are more and more hostilities,” he explained. In response to these concerns, the RCDS is supporting the formation of a Jewish university group.
University’s Stance on Antisemitism
The University of Hamburg has publicly stated its firm condemnation of all forms of antisemitism and emphasizes its commitment to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all students. However, the RCDS and concerned students are calling for more concrete actions to address the reported incidents and ensure the safety of Jewish students on campus.
Looking Ahead: Addressing the Concerns
The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of managing diverse viewpoints and ensuring academic freedom while actively combating antisemitism within university settings. The establishment of a Jewish university group, supported by the RCDS, aims to provide a dedicated space and voice for Jewish students, potentially fostering a more inclusive campus environment. Further discussions and actions are anticipated as the university and student bodies work to address these critical issues.
Source: https://www.ndr.de/nachrichten/hamburg/kritik-an-palaestinenser-treffen-in-hamburger-uni-raeumen,unihamburg-106.html
