Pro-Palestinian Mobilization at Sciences Po Paris
On October 9, 2024, Sciences Po Paris was once again the focus of a pro-Palestinian demonstration, which prompted police intervention to clear the premises. Around 100 students gathered early in the morning, blocking access to the prestigious political studies institution with trash cans, bicycles, and scooters. Protesters displayed a large Palestinian flag and a banner reading 'neither forgotten nor forgiven' as they called for an end to the violence in Gaza.
Access to the school was restored shortly before 9 a.m. after police arrived to manage the situation, which remained calm throughout the intervention. A representative from the Palestine committee at Sciences Po, speaking anonymously, emphasized the importance of raising awareness about the ongoing atrocities in Gaza, stating, 'We cannot remain silent in the face of the atrocities committed in Gaza.' Alice, a student and member of the Student Union, reiterated the need for solidarity, saying, 'It was important to be here today to show that the struggle continues.'
Political Context and University Response
The demonstration at Sciences Po is part of a larger wave of pro-Palestinian activism among students in France. Another rally is scheduled for the same day at Place de la Sorbonne, organized by various student unions. Recent days have seen similar gatherings at Sciences Po locations in Paris, Lille, and Menton, where pro-Palestinian messages have sparked complaints from the management.
Luis Vassy, the newly appointed director of Sciences Po Paris, has taken legal action following the demonstrations, particularly targeting Hicham Touili-Idrissi, a member of the Palestine committee. The French Minister of Higher Education, Patrick Hetzel, has expressed concerns over the political nature of these demonstrations, asserting that they contradict the principles of neutrality and secularism mandated for public higher education institutions. He has warned university leaders of their responsibility to maintain order, especially in light of the anniversary of the Hamas attack in Israel on October 7, 2023.
Ongoing Activism and Future Demonstrations
The political climate surrounding these events is charged, with calls from political figures like Jean-Luc Mélenchon advocating for the display of Palestinian and Lebanese flags in universities as a form of solidarity. The ongoing demonstrations at Sciences Po reflect a broader trend of student activism in France, highlighting the tensions surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
As the situation evolves, students and faculty at Sciences Po Paris continue to navigate the complexities of political expression within academic settings. The institution has committed to enhancing education on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, aiming to prepare students for informed engagement on this critical issue.
