The Israeli government's actions, which are increasingly coming into conflict with international law, and the worsening humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip have recently led to increasing calls for a boycott of Israeli academic institutions. In Germany as well as at European level.
The HU is currently cooperating with five Israeli universities and two research institutions. After deliberate consideration, the Presidium has decided to continue this academic dialogue and the ongoing projects with our Israeli cooperation partners. Many Israeli academics are an important voice for democracy. They are committed to dialogue, openness to the world and respect for universal human rights and fight against the dismantling of democratic structures.
Representatives of Israeli universities have repeatedly denounced and criticised the actions and policies of the Israeli government: The rectors of the five largest Israeli universities have written an open letter and there have been open statements from more than 1,200 Israeli academics who have made their criticism and demands of the Israeli government clear and who continue to do so despite threats and repression from the Israeli government.
"A general boycott of Israeli science weakens the democratic forces and would particularly affect those Israeli scientists who are committed to fighting the polarisation and radicalisation of society, who acknowledge the suffering of civilians on both sides and who are committed to a peaceful solution to the conflict," said Julia von Blumenthal at the University Senate meeting on 16 September 2025.