UCL academics pen letter in support of International Definition of Antisemitism
A group of academics at University College London (UCL) have reportedly written a letter expressing their support for the International Definition of Antisemitism, in the wake of a scandalous report and resolution by the University’s Academic Board calling on the University to “retract and replace” the Definition.
The nineteen signatories described the Definition as “an important safeguard” and condemned the resolution by the Academic Board as being based on a “deeply flawed report, presented as a balanced investigation, but which reads like a partisan piece of advocacy.” They further claimed that the authors of the report consulted only two Jewish students and ignored the widespread support that the Definition enjoys in the Jewish community.
UCL adopted the International Definition of Antisemitism in 2019 but earlier this month its Academic Board passed an advisory resolution calling on the University to “retract and replace” the Definition. The Students’ Union recently voted down a similar resolution. After the vote, one Jewish academic affiliated to the University resigned in disgust, calling UCL an “antisemitic cesspit”.
Following the Academic Board’s vote, Campaign Against Antisemitism announced that it was writing to the Provost of UCL.
Campaign Against Antisemitism monitors the adoption of the International Definition of Antisemitism by universities.
If any students are concerned about antisemitism on campus or need assistance, they can call us on 0330 822 0321, or e-mail [email protected].
