Around 13:00 on 2 June, pro-Palestinian protesters set up a tent camp at the Roeterseiland Campus. They're deeply concerned about the situation in Gaza and call on the UvA community to explore together how best to show solidarity.

Rector Magnificus Peter-Paul Verbeek and FMG Dean Christa Boer met and talked with the organisers of the occupation. 

Follow the latest news here. You can also read the Rector's letter from last week.

Update 2 – Tuesday, 3 June, 9:30   

The night at the tent camp on the Roeterseiland campus passed peacefully. This morning at 8:30 AM, the planned follow-up meeting (between a delegation of the demonstrators, the rector, and two deans) began. 

Several times, the question was raised why the tents are now allowed to remain, whereas they were removed last year. The reason is that the Public Prosecution Service has determined that while the lawn is UvA property, it cannot be closed off and is therefore considered public space. As such, it is up to the municipality to decide whether or not to intervene. For now, the municipality sees no reason to do so. 

Update 1 - Monday, 2 June, 17:20

The Rector and Dean had a good conversation with the demonstrators. Different perspectives and dilemmas were shared in an open and constructive atmosphere. Although the mood on the lawn is calm, for safety reasons it is advised to dismantle the camp in the evening — whether temporarily or not.

The conversation will continue tomorrow.