Universities urged to boost protections for Jewish students after anti-Israel protests

Dutch universities and higher education institutions must take stronger measures to protect Jewish students and staff, according to a new report by the Taskforce Against Antisemitism. The taskforce, commissioned by the Ministry of Justice and Security, examined safety concerns following violent incidents involving fans of Israeli soccer club Maccabi Tel Aviv in Amsterdam in late 2024.

The taskforce found that Jewish students and staff continue to feel unsafe due to anti-Israel demonstrations and harassment "targeting their Jewish identity." Many have stayed home for extended periods, while some have sought new jobs or transferred to different universities or programs.

Several protests against Israel at universities escalated, with demonstrators occupying buildings—sometimes without affiliation to the institutions. The taskforce said schools must intervene more effectively, including clarifying the legal options available when demonstrations spiral out of control.

Officials are advised to maintain direct contact with Jewish community members within their institutions. Universities and hbo institutions are urged to publicly support Jewish students and staff more consistently. The report states, “Ensure that they can continue their studies, work, or research without danger or feelings of insecurity.”

Universities reported that pro-Palestinian demonstrations over the past two years, including at train stations, have sometimes led to tensions on campus. The taskforce stressed that while criminal antisemitism has rarely been identified, some protests include subtle forms of antisemitism, particularly anti-Zionist messages.

Caspar van den Berg, chairman of Universities of the Netherlands, said, “Our Jewish students and staff should not be held responsible for the actions of the Israeli government.” He called recent harassment incidents “shocking and unacceptable” and noted that universities have already taken many steps to improve social safety. “Where necessary, additional measures will be taken,” Van den Berg said, adding that staff trained to identify antisemitism would receive new instruction, in line with the taskforce’s recommendations.

The University of Amsterdam (UvA) said it has already implemented several safety measures, including new campus rules and cooperation with the municipality and police during protests. Rector Peter-Paul Verbeek said the taskforce’s report will help the university build on these efforts. A central antisemitism reporting point has been available since October for students and staff to report concerns.

The University of Groningen described the taskforce recommendations as “additional tools,” noting that while various measures are already in place, the report could help improve or expand them. “We will always protect anyone affected and ensure everyone feels safe,” a university spokesperson said.

Radboud University said it will use the report to train confidential advisors to identify antisemitism and continue implementing existing measures. The Association of Universities of Applied Sciences echoed these sentiments, saying, “It is essential that Jewish students and staff feel seen, supported, and safe within higher education.”