Update
Dialogue, Debate and Demonstrations at WUR
Dear new students,
Welcome to WUR, a community to learn, do research, and explore issues that are part of improving the quality of life. That is the mission of WUR: to explore nature to improve the quality of life. That is in the form of education and research, but it is also about engaging with one another. All is done in a variety of ways.
Sometimes this is in the form of protests. The reason for this particular message is to inform you about recent Palestina protests on our WUR Campus. You will encounter this when exploring campus. Palestina protests and demonstrations have taken place in Universities all over the world and within the Netherlands.
Bridge Occupied
Since Wednesday 15 May, a group of students from WUR have occupied the bridge between Orion and Forum. We do understand that this protest might raise concerns and questions among you, such as: What is the demonstration about? Can students participate? Can students participate in demonstrations without facing consequences? Where can you go if you do not like demonstrations or protests? Where can you go if you do not know what to think or when you are in doubt? Where can you go if you feel unsafe because of demonstrations? What are the campus rules for protests? And how can students have a say in the university's policies?
What is this particular demonstration about? I’ve asked the students who occupied the bridge to write down their message to you. you can read their message below (note: this is not a formal message from WUR!):
Message from the Protestors
“When you arrive on campus you might be surprised to see tents, a cozy living room and a kitchen right next to the university buildings! Little did you know, this colorful camp has been here for 3 months already, although we're not really here solely for a fun summer experience.
We decided to come together in protest because we are outraged about WUR's ties with Israeli institutions that are involved in the ongoing genocide against Palestinians. E.g. institutions that research efficiency of war drones, that have buildings in illegal settlements and that invest in the Israeli military.
We are here to protest but also to inform and talk about these issues and how WUR approaches them (they choose to stay complicit). Please feel welcome to come by anytime for a cup of tea and a good talk, we are a safe space in which all opinions are welcome when respectfully formulated.”
Latest Updates
On this WUR webpage, you can find the latest formal updates from WUR on the protest. Here, you can also find a link to an interview with our Rector Carolien Kroeze about the Palestina protest on Campus.
Are Demonstrations Allowed?
Protesting is a human right and peaceful demonstration is appropriate in a democracy and also in an academic institution. A university is a place for open dialogue, with respect for each other's views. We want WUR to be an environment where students and staff are safe, feel secure and dare to speak out on issues. Important aspect of a protest however is that the protest is peaceful.
At WUR we have rules for demonstrating on Campus. Education and research should not be hindered by demonstrations. Calls for hatred, violence, intolerance or calls that otherwise transgress the boundaries of our open society do not fit in. Neither does vandalism and destruction. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. There is always support available for you!
Open Dialogue and Debate
At WUR, we believe that maintaining an open dialogue is essential for a good and safe learning environment. We therefore encourage you to engage openly and honestly with each other and with staff. Especially during these times, with complex and sensitive issues such as the situation in Gaza and Israel, it is important to understand and respect each other's perspectives. This way, we can ensure that WUR remains a place where everyone can feel at home and safe, regardless of background or belief. Do you want to voice your opinion and contribute ideas about WUR policies? There are various ways to hear your voice. Join the programme board, talk with your study organisation or contact the Student Council. You can also join the activities from Wageningen Dialogues or Studium Generale.
I hope this is clarifying for you. As stated, however, feel free to touch base with me directly. During the AID you can also discuss any issues with your mentor or contact the Central Post (CP) in Forum, B0106 or +31 317 484 200.
Best regards,
Ingrid Hijman
(e-mail)
Head Student Service Centre
Wageningen, August 15th, 2024