In April 2005, the Association of University Teachers in the UK resolved to boycott two Israeli universities, Bar-Ilan and Haifa. In response to this, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, and the Palestinian Al Quds University of Jerusalem, issued a joint statement calling for continued academic cooperation. The statement was signed at the Royal Society in London on 19 May 2005, by the Presidents of both institutions.
Our position is based upon the belief that it is through cooperation based on mutual respect, rather than through boycotts or discrimination, that our common goals can be achieved. Bridging political gulfs – rather than widening them further apart – between nations and individuals thus becomes an educational duty as well as a functional necessity, requiring exchange and dialogue rather than confrontation and antagonism. Our disaffection with, and condemnation of acts of academic boycotts and discrimination against scholars and institutions, is predicated on the principles of academic freedom, human rights, and equality between nations and among individuals. We therefore call upon academics here [in the UK] and worldwide
to act in support of our mission, as one which might allow for
ending our shared tragedy rather than prolonging it.” Prof Menachem Magidor
The boycott of Haifa and Bar-Ilan Universities (Briefing 140) |
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