At many universities across Germany and internationally, the events in Israel and Gaza are continuing to preoccupy and mobilise students and employees, including at the University of Freiburg. In addition, some members of the University are themselves affected by the war in Gaza and Israel – whether through their background, family, friends or relationships with colleagues. The debates on the Israel-Palestine conflict are sometimes very controversial in public, in politics, in the media and also at universities. In view of this tense and, for many, emotionally charged situation, the University of Freiburg sees it as its task to contribute to a differentiated debate and understanding, to ensure a safe campus for all its members and to protect them from discrimination.
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The University of Freiburg is a place of fact-based dialogue, academic freedom, democratic values and humanity. We express our deepest sympathy to the civilian population in Israel and Gaza, who have become victims of war and violence through no fault of their own. Our special concern and solidarity go out to our University members of Israeli and Palestinian origin who are currently fearing or mourning the loss of family members, friends or colleagues. Last but not least, our thoughts are with the many researchers, teachers and students from Gaza and Israel who are being prevented from pursuing their mission: to develop and objectively share evidence-based knowledge, to acquire and pass on education.
We see ourselves as part of a global scientific community that is united by the conviction that its work can contribute to international understanding, scientific knowledge and reflection. It is an extremely valuable asset that we are able to fulfil these tasks on the basis of the German Basic Law, which guarantees us scientific freedom and the freedom of expression. We consider it our duty to strengthen and protect this space. Anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim sentiments and racism have no place at the University of Freiburg.
We all contribute to a constructive, fact-based dialogue that is characterised by mutual respect – even if opinions on political and social developments differ. These guidelines are intended to provide all members of the University with a basis and orientation for how we can enter into a respectful dialogue on this topic, even if understanding is sometimes difficult and agreement is not always possible.
We are aware that we are talking about the death and suffering of human beings. We will not look away. It goes without saying that we treat each other with respect and use language that avoids vilification and hate speech. Members of the University of Freiburg also grieve and worry about family and friends. Their personal pain should be given space and not relativised.
The University is a place of fact-based debate, where discussions and arguments can and should be based on scientific research. We are used to dealing with complex issues and recognise diversity of perspective as a strength. In the face of a highly polarised debate, we demand this diligence. This includes the fact that such a complex and long-lasting conflict cannot be captured by one-sided apportionment of blame. We are careful with historical comparisons and oppose the trivialisation of violence.
The safety of all University members is our common concern, which also requires clear boundaries to be drawn. We oppose anti-Semitism, anti-Muslim sentiments and racism. This also includes Israel-related anti-Semitism, which can manifest itself, for example, in the denial of Israel’s right to exist. We take these different forms of discrimination equally seriously and do not play them off against each other. We stand up for each other when people feel hurt, marginalised or threatened.
Discriminatory lettering is frequently seen on the campus of the University of Freiburg. We ask members of the university to report these signs. These can be forwarded to protect – Protection against Discrimination and Abuse of powerprotect@zv.uni-freiburg.de with a photo and the exact location. The reporting office will check all lettering, document it and arrange for it to be removed.