On Monday 18 May, several protesters occupied various locations on the campus. On this page, we provide an overview of the current situation and further developments.
21:30 Occupation of VU buildings ended
On Monday evening, the Amsterdam police, following a report of trespassing, provided assistance in bringing an end to the occupation of several locations on the VU campus. This followed repeated but unsuccessful requests by VU Amsterdam for the protesters to end the occupation, and after barricades had created an unsafe situation. Several arrests were made.
19:45 VU files a report for trespassing
Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam has filed a report of trespassing in relation to the occupation of several buildings on its campus. This followed repeated requests by VU Amsterdam for the protesters to end the occupation.
On Monday 18 May, a peaceful protest was initiated on the university campus by VU students. During the protest, participants were asked not to disrupt teaching and research activities and to remove face-covering clothing. Within a short period of time, the protest escalated into an occupation of the BelleVUe building, the administrative corridor, and the Forum area in the main building. The barricades erected led to a situation that was ultimately unsafe and threatening. Despite agreements regarding the termination of the occupation and multiple warnings, the group of protesters indicated that they were unwilling to leave. As a result, VU Amsterdam filed a report of trespassing.
As a university, we stand for constructive dialogue based on respect for one another’s perspectives. Unfortunately, the circumstances left us with no other choice today, and police intervention was necessary to safeguard safety and order on our campus.
17:00 Occupation of the BelleVUe building on 18 May
At present, the BelleVUe building on the campus of VU Amsterdam is being occupied by pro-Palestinian demonstrators. There is also a protest at the executive offices of VU, where the Executive Board is based.
Through these actions, the demonstrators are calling on the university to sever ties with Israeli institutions and defence-related collaborations.
VU Amsterdam respects freedom of expression and the right to protest. Protests are permitted provided they take place within the framework of the university’s house rules and do not endanger the safety of students, staff or visitors. The occupation of a university building and the wearing of face-covering clothing do not fall within these rules.
During the protest at the executive offices, demonstrators were twice asked to move their protest to the campus square in order to avoid disruption to PhD ceremonies and other activities. They were also asked to remove face-covering clothing. So far, these requests have not been complied with. A final order to leave will now be issued. If this order is again not complied with, the demonstrators may be escorted outside by the police.
Regarding the occupation of the BelleVUe building, discussions have now taken place twice with the demonstrators’ liaisons. It was agreed that the group would voluntarily leave the building at 15:45 and continue the protest on the campus square. At present, access to the building is not being permitted due to barricades that have been put in place. As a result, the safety of those involved cannot be sufficiently guaranteed. Should the agreement not be honoured, VU will have no alternative but to request the competent authorities to assist in ending the occupation.
Alternative locations have been arranged for planned educational activities in the BelleVUe building. Students and lecturers have been informed accordingly.
Scheduled exams and education today will take place
Scheduled exams and education this evening will take place at their planned locations. Please bring your student or staff ID card and have it ready upon entry. Due to additional security checks, it may take longer to enter the building. Students are therefore advised to leave in good time.