Responding to the rise in student protests across UK campuses, following ongoing violence in the Middle East

Like many, we have watched the unfolding violence in Palestine with great sadness, frustration, and an overwhelming sense of helplessness. In December, we committed to continuing to support students and challenging injustice where we see it. We also expressed our sincere hopes for peace, and are therefore upset and disappointed to be sharing a similar statement six months later. 

It is impossible to comprehend the images, videos, and personal testimonies being shared on social media. The extent of the loss and destruction being experienced is devastating, and our thoughts remain with everybody impacted by the events that have taken place on, and since, the 7th October, as well as all who this longstanding conflict has impacted. 

Many students across the UK care deeply about peace in the Middle East and have chosen to exercise their right to protest. For decades, student movements have truly changed the world and remind us how powerful and influential the student population can be. We support everybody’s right to express their views safely and peacefully. 

As we reflected in our previous statement, we remain deeply concerned by the sustained increase in antisemitism and Islamophobia being reported on campuses and within student communities. This is unacceptable. Universities should be safe spaces for students to exercise free speech and their right to protest, whilst ensuring no student feels unsafe on campus. Students and staff also have a responsibility to ensure that peaceful protests do not act as an excuse for discrimination and hate speech. 

During such a difficult and upsetting period, it’s important that we look after ourselves and each other. Social media and the news can feel overwhelming, and it’s ok to switch off sometimes to protect your own wellbeing. If you want to talk, try reaching out to your friends, family, or your university for support. The most important thing is doing what works for you. 

Along with many students, we stand with the humanitarian community and colleagues across the higher education and charity sectors in supporting calls for an immediate ceasefire and immediate release of all hostages.


Support and Community

• Student Minds- Managing the impact of global events
• Student Minds - Five steps to healthy digital habits 
• Union of Jewish Students
• ​Find your JSoc
• Federation of Student Islamic Societies 
• ​Muslim Youth Helpline 
• Jami - Mental health support for Jewish communities

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Reporting incidents of antisemitism or Islamophobia 

• Reporting hate crime to the police
• TellMAMA 
• ​Community Security Trust ​

More information

• Student Minds adopted the IHRA definition of antisemitism in 2022. You can find out more about the IHRA definition on the International Holocaust Remembrance Association’s website. 
• ​The Muslim Council of Britain has information about tackling Islamophobia available on their website. 
• ​Middle East Crisis Response Guidance for students, SUs, Officers and student groups, developed by NUS. 
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If you are a student involved or interested in protesting, find out more about your rights on Liberty’s website.​