Campus crackdowns: Gaza war and freedom of _expression_ crisis
The top leadership of several Ivy League universities in the United States are facing consequences due to a crackdown on students protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza. This situation has brought attention to the issue of freedom of _expression_ on a global scale, according to UN Special Rapporteur Irene Khan. Ms. Khan emphasized that the crisis in Gaza has evolved into a worldwide crisis concerning freedom of _expression_, with significant long-term implications. Demonstrations worldwide have been demanding an end to the conflict that began in October after Hamas attacks on Israel resulted in casualties and hostages.
The ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza have led to a high number of Palestinian casualties and a man-made famine, as reported by the local health ministry and UN agencies. In an interview, Ms. Khan expressed concerns about the restrictions on academic freedom in the United States, particularly on campuses of prestigious Ivy League institutions like Columbia, Harvard, and Yale. She highlighted the impact of these restrictions on people’s rights to protest against the war and occupation, noting the divisive political climate that has emerged as a result.
She emphasized the concerning increase in hate speech during the protests, highlighting the need to differentiate between hate speech or calls for violence and simply expressing a different perspective on the situation in Israel and the occupied territories, or criticizing Israel’s approach to the conflict. According to her, it is crucial to safeguard the right to express legitimate opinions. However, she lamented the growing sense of hysteria prevailing in the United States.
She emphasized the importance of prohibiting anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, stating that hate speech is a violation of international law. However, she made it clear that criticizing Israel as a political entity or a state is a separate matter and is perfectly legitimate under international law. According to her, special rapporteurs have already identified a bias against pro-Palestinian supporters on social media. She stressed the significance of freedom of _expression_ as a fundamental right that plays a crucial role in democracy, development, conflict resolution, and peace-building. She warned against politicizing the issue and undermining the right to protest and freedom of _expression_, as it would have negative consequences. She believed that such actions would make negotiations harder if one side is silenced, and it would ultimately be a disservice for which there will be consequences.