Israeli Actions Systematically Undermine Palestinian Higher Education, Study Finds

A new survey reveals that Israeli actions since October 7, 2023, have systematically targeted Palestinian academia, impacting individuals and institutions. The study, published by the International Academic Campaign to Boycott Israel and Apartheid, indicates these are not isolated incidents but a coordinated pattern of pressure and disruption.

The survey, which included 502 Palestinian academics, researchers, and graduate students, found that movement restrictions at Israeli checkpoints were the most common violation, affecting 53% of respondents. Other significant violations included home invasions (38.2%), racial discrimination (34.6%), and raids on universities and workplaces (25.5%).

Beyond individual harassment, the study highlighted institutional impacts. University closures were deemed the most severe threat to higher education by 36.6% of participants, followed by financial and economic restrictions (18.3%) and the arrest of students and academic staff (17.1%). The survey also noted restrictions on laboratory equipment, academic exchange programs, and the destruction of universities, all contributing to the disruption of education and research.

Significant disparities were found between academics in the West Bank and Gaza. Gaza experienced higher rates of home demolitions and university closures, while the West Bank saw more frequent movement restrictions and settler attacks. Graduate students and less experienced academics reported higher exposure to certain violations like home invasions and settler attacks.

The International Academic Campaign called for prioritizing the protection of Palestinian higher education and research. They urged systematic documentation of violations, provision of legal and psychological support for those affected, and international pressure to safeguard academic freedom and access to educational resources.