The Flemish Free University of Brussels, the VUB, and students belonging to the VUB Palestine Solidarity Network have reached an agreement on the ending of the occupation of a study hall at the university, the university authorities reported on Wednesday.
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Agreement to end university occupation at Flemish Free University Brussels (VUB)
Colin Clapson
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In protest against the VUB's links with Israel a group of students have been occupying a hall on campus since May. The hall is officially called the Stoa, but the activists have named it the 'Jabalia Hall', after a destroyed refugee camp in the Gaza Strip. They will now leave this space.
It took several rounds of talks to come to an agreement. In the process, the rectorate i.e. the university authorities, staff and the occupying students discussed various demands. This finally resulted in an agreement on Tuesday. When exactly the occupation will end is not clear.
Rector lauds "constructive, listening approach"
VUB Rector Jan Danckaert is satisfied that agreement was reached in "a constructive way". "This shows that by listening carefully to each other and understanding the nuances, we can reach solutions for the future."
Rector Danckaert, who is the head of the university, acknowledged the students' commitment. "For the VUB, commitment to a better and more just world is crucial. I admire the perseverance of the occupying students. Our university stands for facts and open dialogue, not for rigid dogma. When there are disagreements, it is crucial to engage patiently and listen carefully. In doing so, one cannot rigidly cling to one's own big right."
A news conference is being held in the Stoa at 2pm on Wednesday afternoon to explain the agreement. The rector will be present as well as a staff representative and a student from the VUB Palestine Solidarity Network.