The University of Amsterdam (UvA) just ended its exchange programme with the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HUJI). This decision followed an advisory committee report, which states that there is a serious risk of systemic human rights violations and threats to academic freedom linked to HUJI’s educational ties to the Israeli military.
For over a year, I and other students, faculty, and staff at the Hertie School have urged the administration to do the same. On top of all the existing evidence, UvA’s findings make it clear: Hebrew University’s involvement in research and training programs for Israel’s military poses ethical dilemmas that cannot be ignored.
HUJI also has facilities – including dorms for exchange students – on the French Hill in East Jerusalem, which is occupied territory under international law, not Israeli land. The international community, including Germany and the EU, recognise this.
Meanwhile, Professor Shalhoub-Kevorkian resigned from HUJI after facing a repressive environment when she publicly called for a ceasefire and became a target of government and media attacks.
Respected universities that pride themselves in ‘shaping tomorrow’, and educate their students in international law, must uphold human rights and academic freedom in practice. They should stay as far away as possible from international law violations and war crimes. UvA’s decision reflects this responsibility, and Hertie should follow suit.
While exchange programs offer wonderful opportunities, they shouldn’t legitimise institutions that facilitate oppression and undermine the international legal system. Hertie must act, end its partnership with Hebrew University and seek ethical alternatives in the region.
Let’s not be the boiling frogs that watch the rules-based international order burn to the ground.
Cazper Steigstra is the Editor-in-Chief of The Governance Post and a Press Officer for the S&D Group in the European Parliament. He studies Public Policy and holds a degree in Political Science and International Relations.
This article reflects his personal views.
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