Update Monday, October 6 – Situation students Global Sumud Flotilla
We have heard that the two students who were previously detained during a mission of the activist fleet Global Sumud Flotilla have been released and are on their way home. We are relieved and hope that the students are doing well. We are reaching out to check on their wellbeing and to provide support where needed.
Update Saturday, October 4 - Students Global Sumud Flotilla
On Thursday, October 2, the Israeli navy intercepted boats from the activist fleet Global Sumud Flotilla near the coast of Gaza. During this action, two students from Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam were detained. We have received many responses from students and staff regarding this concerning situation. Unfortunately, we are unable to respond to each message individually. We are closely monitoring the situation and are doing our best to reach out to the students involved.
We hope for the students' safe and swift return.
FRAMEWORK FOR INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS
Prompted in part by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, along with the rapidly changing political climate worldwide, the VU developed last year the assessment framework 'Risks surrounding violations of human rights and armed conflict'. The framework has since been refined, following a year-long pilot phase and feedback from students and staff.
One of the concrete principles of the assessment framework for international collaborations is that VU Amsterdam does not enter into collaborations with central or local governments of countries for which there is credible evidence of involvement in serious human rights violations. Based on the principles of the framework, and in consultation with the Advisory Committee, VU has decided to discontinue a specific research collaboration involving an Israeli government body.
As of 1 September 2025, the assessment framework will be mandatory for all new or renewed collaborations where potential risks of human rights violations or involvement in armed conflict may be present. Existing collaborations where such risks are identified will also be reassessed against the framework and concluded within six months.
The framework is a living document and will be updated as necessary based on new insights and experiences. The assessment framework 'Risks surrounding violations of human rights and armed conflict', frequently asked questions and more detailed information can be found on this page.
OPEN LETTERS FROM THE ADMINISTRATION OF VU AMSTERDAM
Here you can read the open letter of September 25 to students and staff about the latest developments at VU Amsterdam from the Executive Board and the Deans.
Previous open letters: May 26 2025, 5 June 2024, 7 May 2024 and 11 May 2024
HELP AND SUPPORT
Do you have questions or concerns, or do you need help or advice? There are several places at the VU where you can go. Dialogue and debate centre 3D and NEWconnective are committed to providing support and assistance to students regarding the student protests by organising discussions, holding moments of silence, and facilitating support groups. For more information, contact 3D and NEWconnective. Consult this page for staff and students for more information about the support that VU Amsterdam centrally offers.