At its General Meeting on May 2, 2019, Leeds UCU (the lecturers’ union) affirmed that any relations between Leeds University and Ariel University would be illegal, passing the following resolution, with 34 in favour, 1 against, and 7 abstentions. Similar motions have been approved by Exeter, Open University, Aberdeen, Brunel and Brighton UCU branches.

“Leeds UCU notes that Israeli settlements in occupied territory constitute a breach of international law, as is affirmed by (among many others) the British Government, the United Nations (Security Council and General Assembly), the International Court of Justice, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the High Contracting Parties to the Geneva Convention.

Leeds UCU notes therefore that, because Ariel University is built in a settlement, for the University of Leeds to recognise degrees from Ariel University, or to collaborate with Ariel University in any way, would be complicit in the breaking of international law.”

Published by Leeds UCU