There was a 117% increase in antisemitic incidents at universities between 2022/23 and 2023/2024 as reported by the Community Security Trust (CST). In addition to this the CST have received complaints of extreme and violent rhetoric towards Israel at pro-Palestian marches on campuses. Recently an Oxford student has been arrested and suspended over chants of this nature.
The risks facing universities:
- Threats to the safety and security of Jewish students, staff and chaplains on campus and at Jewish societies, accommodation and spaces designated for Jewish students.
- Students on campus publicly showing illegal support for proscribed terrorist organisations and/ or inciting violence against “Zionists”.
- Universities could face sanctions from the OfS if Jewish students are not protected from antisemitic harassment
- Jewish students may choose not to go to university over fears of antisemitism
Recommended actions:
- Update Equality and Diversity Policies to incorporate specific guidance around antisemitism
- Review policies in place regarding student behaviour with regards to protesting and antisemitism and hate speech
- Train staff on antisemitism – the BBC has recently reported that the Union of Jewish Students will deliver 600 training sessions to help university staff support students, identify harassment and hate.
- Communicate and engage with students over the unacceptability of antisemitism and hate speech.
- Review the security arrangements in place with regards to the safety of Jewish students, staff, activities and spaces related to the university.
References:
Universities must act on antisemitism, Bridget Phillipson says – BBC News
Universities risk sanctions over Gaza protests, watchdog says – BBC News
Antisemitism Awareness Training – UJS
Useful resource:
Tackling antisemitism: practical guidance for universities