Administrative error allows far-right GNSV to return to Radboud University welcome fair
Radboud University has accidentally allowed the far-right Groot-Nederlandse Studentenvereniging (GNSV) to participate in this year’s student introduction market. According to Omroep Gelderland, this happened due to an administrative error that prevented the university from reviewing and potentially rejecting applications from organizations that do not align with its values.
The university had introduced a new registration process this year after years of controversy surrounding GNSV’s presence at the Nijmegen introduction event for new students. The procedure was designed to allow the university to exclude organizations whose ideology was considered inconsistent with its principles.
Last year, Omroep Gelderland reported that a GNSV member, Thomas D., was suspected of preparing a terrorist crime. He had attended the organization’s booth at previous introduction markets. Thomas D. is currently serving a prison sentence for manufacturing and possessing weapons and ammunition and has been ordered to participate in a deradicalization program.
Under the new system, non-recognized organizations were required to explain how they would make a positive contribution to the introduction week. Applicants had to describe, among other things, “how their activities contribute to an inclusive campus where all students feel welcome, safe and represented” and how “their vision and mission correspond with those of the university.”
However, the planned review process failed. A university spokesperson said that “an assessment of the content was not reached because all applicants received an automatic registration confirmation after paying the registration fee.”
The university introduced the new rules following years of criticism and unrest over GNSV’s participation. Radboud University’s student council previously expressed concerns about the group’s presence, and several university employees publicly opposed its participation. In recent years, protests have also taken place at GNSV’s booth during the introduction market.
GNSV did not attend last year’s introduction market voluntarily, citing concerns for its own safety because of threats. The organization did not respond to a request from Omroep Gelderland to explain the nature of the threats or identify who had made them.
