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Students at a pro-Palestinian protest at the Free University of Berlin on December 14, 2023
Photo: Anadolu/Getty Images
Anti-Semitism has no place at German universities - this was emphasized by the President of the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Joybrato Mukherjee, in an interview with Deutschlandfunk.
"No one should have any doubts that any university management would not stand here," said Mukherjee, who is also rector of the University of Cologne.
He pointed to a feeling of insecurity among many Jewish students that should not be tolerated.
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Joybrato Mukherjee, President of the German Academic Exchange Service DAAD
Photo:
Metodi Popov / IMAGO
In this context, Mukherjee did not rule out the expulsion of students who take part in anti-Semitic actions.
However, this should be “only a last resort”.
Above all, it is important to show attitude.
However, it is also clear that universities are always a reflection of society.
In this respect, social conflicts did not stop at the academic world.
Mukherjee pointed out that the DAAD is currently intensifying its academic relations with Israel.
However, this solidarity with Israel means that the DAAD is currently in “a more difficult position” in neighboring Arab countries.
“As Germans, we are clearly on Israel’s side,” said the DAAD President.
Nevertheless, empathy applies “to all civilian victims.”
Since the attack on Israel by the radical Islamic Hamas on October 7th and the start of the Gaza War, there has been an increase in anti-Semitic attacks in Germany, including at universities.
Events related to Israel were disrupted several times at universities and Jewish students were attacked.
hba/AFP