The Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) reached an agreement with the VUB Palestine Solidarity Network to end the pro-Palestine student camp, the university announced in a press release on Wednesday.
Since May, the students have occupied the STOA building – which they refer to as Jabalia Hall (in reference to the largest refugee camp in Palestinian territory). The occupation is a protest against the violence in Gaza and seeks to pressure the university to break partnerships with organisations which contribute to the Israeli military offensive.
The decision to end the camp resulted from a series of meetings between the university rectorate, staff, and the students.
VUB rector Jan Danckaert said in a press statement that he admired "the perseverance of the occupying students." He emphasised that "the university values free speech and opposes dogmatism. When a difference of opinion arises, it’s critical that everyone is willing to engage in dialogue and listen."
Last week, the students of the camp took to their Instagram page to summarise some of the achievements of the camp and their pending demands. The post highlights the VUB's acknowledgement that as an academic institution it should support Palestinian academics and students. It also highlights the university's commitment to supporting the reconstruction of the educational infrastructure in Gaza and the West Bank.
View this post on Instagram
Details of the agreements that led to the end of the camp will be discussed in a press conference today at 14:00 at the STOA. The rector, a staff representative and a student from the VUB Palestine Solidarity Network will be present.
