For the protection of educational spaces

The Conference of Rectors of Spanish Universities (CRUE) expresses its deep concern and firm condemnation of the events that took place on 6 January at Birzeit University in the West Bank, regarding military action by the Israeli army on the university campus during academic activities, which, according to available information, resulted in injuries.

Universities are essential spaces for the development of knowledge, higher education, and the exercise of academic freedom. Any action that forcibly disrupts the normal functioning of these spaces constitutes a direct threat to the right to education and to the principles that underpin the university's mission worldwide.

CRUE recalls that the protection of educational spaces and those who belong to them is an obligation enshrined in international law, and stresses the need to guarantee the security, integrity, and autonomy of universities, regardless of the contexts of conflict or political tension in which they may find themselves.

The Conference expresses its solidarity with Birzeit University, its students, faculty, and staff, and conveys its support to all those affected by these events, reiterating its commitment to the defence of higher education as a public good, to international academic cooperation, and to the values of peace, respect for human rights, and coexistence that should govern university life.