Staff and students at Lund University who have publicly supported Palestine are reportedly facing harassment and pressure from the university administration.
In an interview with the Bonnier newspaper Sydsvenskan, Oliver Scharbrodt, a professor of Islamology, claims that those who openly support Palestine have been asked to leave the classroom and, in some cases, summoned to the dean’s office.
Erik Renström, the university’s rector, denies that students have been retaliated against for their opinions and stresses that discussions with the dean are crucial for a healthy working environment. However, Oliver Scharbrodt believes that harassment has been directed at those who, for example, signed a petition for a ceasefire.
– Unfortunately, we have had several cases where colleagues have been harassed, for example by e-mail, for signing the truce petition. Our group has not been allowed to book space at the university, and colleagues who have publicly expressed their support for the Palestinian cause have been summoned to the dean’s office.
A petition written by Lund University Academics for Palestine and signed by around 200 staff and students demands that Lund University suspend cooperation with Israeli universities, research institutes and companies linked to the Israeli military industry.
– It is important to us that Lund University takes a clear stand for international law and human rights in this conflict, Scharbrodt told Sydsvenskan.
Rector defends action
Renström defends the university’s actions and points out that it is not the university’s job to take a position on foreign policy. However, he stresses the employer’s responsibility for the working environment and safety.
– All employees have great freedom to express their opinions without risking reprisals. I would say that this is the case, says Renström.
However, Oliver Scharbrodt believes that the university’s actions in the Gaza conflict are not consistent with the decision to suspend cooperation with Russia. Scharbrodt stresses the need for Lund University to take a clearer stance on international law and human rights.
– We do not differentiate between human suffering. We research and educate on political and social issues, that is one of our core tasks. But it is not our task to take a position on foreign policy issues, the rector says.
Lund University
Lund University, established in 1666 in Lund, Sweden, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe. Founded by King Charles XI after the Swedish conquest of Scania, the university was integral to the cultural and political integration of the region into Sweden.
Initially focused on Swedish law and language to strengthen national identity, Lund University expanded significantly in the 19th century. It embraced scientific and humanistic studies, aligning with the broader European intellectual movement and solidifying its academic reputation. Through the 20th century, Lund navigated the challenges of world wars and post-war, shifted towards international collaboration and research. Today, it's renowned for comprehensive research and a diverse range of disciplines.
Prominent figures like Carl von Linné, the father of modern taxonomy, are associated with Lund, highlighting its significant academic impact and global educational influence.
