The University of Exeter and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) have been accused of undermining freedom of speech after cancelling student-run events as part of Israel Apartheid Week (IAW), an annual pro-Palestinian campaign. At Exeter, the Friends of Palestine Society’s planned ‘Mock Checkpoint’ street theatre was banned for ‘safety and security reasons’ less than 48 hours before it was due to take place. An appeal was refused.
At UCLan, a similar event was halted, while University College London also cancelled a related activity due to organisers failing to secure necessary approval. The cancellations have sparked a row over free speech on campus, with almost 250 academics signing a letter condemning attempts to silence discussion about Israel and Palestinian rights.
The letter criticises Universities Minister Jo Johnson, who recently urged a crackdown on antisemitism and specifically mentioned Israel Apartheid Week. Signatories also expressed concern over the government’s adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism, arguing it conflates criticism of Israel with antisemitism.
A spokesperson for Exeter’s Friends of Palestine Society accused the university of censorship, stating: ‘They are not allowing freedom of speech.’ The university defended its decision, citing guidance from Universities UK and noting that the event was planned for a busy thoroughfare, raising safety and access concerns. It added that other events were still being hosted.
Exeter has recently faced media reports of antisemitism on campus, including a swastika and a ‘Rights for Whites’ notice found in halls of residence. The university confirmed that an investigation had concluded and disciplinary action was taken.
