We believe it is important that we can evidence that our desire for universities to be excluded is solely based on the
above concerns and not because we want universities to be al owed to take part in Boycott Divestment or Sanction
(BDS) actions. In our communications, we have been clear that UUK has clearly and consistently opposed BDS, and
any blanket boycott, divestment or sanction of the state of Israel.
In order to strengthen our case, I would be grateful if you would respond to a one question poll which can be found at
the fol owing link. Please note, we do not intend to refer to individual universities in our lobbying. It would greatly
assist our case if we could encourage ALL members to respond to this poll.
4. Antisemitism on campus
We understand from Community Security Trust (CST) and from speaking to members that there has been an increase
in incidents of antisemitism on campuses. In the 14 days between 7 and 20 October, CST recorded at least 41
university-related antisemitic incidents across the UK. This is the highest ever total of university-related antisemitic
incidents reported to CST across a 14-day period. For comparison, CST recorded 7 university related antisemitic
incidents over the same 14 days in 2022, meaning there has been a 486% increase in the number of anti-Jewish hate
incidents on campus.
Antisemitic incidents can be reported to the Community Security Trust via their website. Jewish students can also
contact the Union of Jewish Students (UJS) for support via their Welfare Hotline on 020 7424 3288. We are continuing
to engage with CST and UJS.
Antisemitism has also been the subject of parliamentary attention over the last week. During Education Oral
Questions on Monday 23 October, several Conservative MPs noted the rise of antisemitism at universities, as wel as
the support for Hamas in the student and academic community. Recent incidents at several institutions were also
highlighted. In his reply, Minister Halfon said antisemitism would not be tolerated and urged universities to prioritise
the implementation of the Taskforce on Antisemitism in Higher Education recommendations.
Antisemitic incidents on campus, and general anxieties among the Jewish student community, were raised by several
peers in a debate on Israel/Gaza in the House of Lords on Tuesday 24 October.
5. Islamophobia on campus
We understand that there has also been an increase in anti-Muslim harassment and hate crime. Tel MAMA has
recorded a six-fold increase in cases of anti-Muslim hate between 7 October and 24 October compared to the same
period in 2022. They logged 400 cases compared to 67 cases the previous year. This includes a number of incidents
taking place within higher education. More information is available on Tel MAMA’s website.
Islamophobic incidents can be reported to Tel MAMA. They also have a free counsel ing service for victims of anti-
Muslim hate or Islamophobia which can be accessed via counsel ing@tel mamauk.org. We are continuing to engage
with Tel MAMA. They are happy for universities to get in touch with them directly to discuss Islamophobia on
campuses and how universities can provide support to Muslim staff and students. To do this, please contact
info@tel mamauk.org.
6. Working with security teams
We would like to remind members of the importance of close working between universities and campus security
teams. We encourage you to engage with your chief security officers in relation to the heightened risks on campus as
a result of the conflict, and to ensure your chief security officers are engaging with local police and Counter Terrorism
teams as appropriate.
7. Update from working group on Israel-Gaza response
As you may be aware, we have convened a working group to share information and practice regarding the conflict in
Israel-Gaza. The group met for the first time on 24 October. Key chal enges highlighted by the group include:
Pressures on wel being support and specialist support
Concerns about Prevent, including communications from OfS
The balance between EDI and freedom of speech, particularly regarding ‘grey areas’
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Concerns about international students and applicants
Support for staff
The group wil continue to meet over the coming weeks, including hearing from external stakeholders.
8. Next vice-chancellor roundtable
We can confirm the next vice-chancel or roundtable on responding to the conflict in Israel-Gaza wil take place at 8am
on Friday 3rd November.
9. PVCI network
UUKi has convened a special meeting of its PVCI network to discuss international issues arising from the conflict,
including visa concerns. Please contact
to join the group or raise any issues.
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