Report Claims Israeli Universities Employ Discriminatory Two-Tier System for Students

A recent report alleges that Israeli academic institutions have implemented a discriminatory two-tiered system for students since October 7th, differentiating between Palestinian and Jewish students under policies described as based on emergency and security loyalty.

The report details a "special administrative track" for Palestinian students, operating under a state of emergency that expands authorities and reduces procedural safeguards. This track allegedly involves vague tests and categorizes expressions based on loyalty, viewing Palestinians as "enemies." In contrast, Jewish students are said to have a "constitutional track" where their freedom of expression, even for extreme views, is more protected.

Furthermore, the report claims academic institutions have ignored widespread calls for the "extermination" and killing of Palestinians, as well as racist publications targeting Palestinians both generally and specifically within universities. This is presented as evidence of a double standard regarding freedom of expression on campus.

The policy is warned to create an atmosphere of intimidation among Palestinian students, leading to self-censorship and diminishing their sense of security and belonging. The report asserts these practices violate international law concerning racial discrimination, women's rights, and minority rights.

In response, the Adalah Center called on Israeli higher education institutions to restore disciplinary powers to legal limits, uphold the rule of law and equality, and establish freedom of expression as a fundamental academic principle, especially for views not aligned with the Jewish majority. Adalah stated, "Freedom of expression in universities must be a guaranteed right for all students without discrimination, and any policy based on illegal separation or restriction will undermine trust in academic institutions."