28 November 2025

The events surrounding last Wednesday’s Cleveringa Lecture have affected many in our university community and beyond. At the last minute, the lecture had to be moved to Leiden Law School after a small group from Students for Palestine occupied Leiden University’s Academy Building.

First, let us say that as the Executive Board, we understand the outrage and sense of helplessness many feel in response to the relentless violence in Gaza. The images and stories are unbearable; the human suffering is immense. We have no problem whatsoever with students and staff wishing to express their outrage and call for change. But we hope that these groups will always put dialogue first. That is why we were disappointed that the activists declined our invitation to discuss the matter last Wednesday.

Within our community, opinions differ on how we should respond to this tragedy and what steps we can or should take. That too is understandable: these are complex, painful questions that touch people deeply. The university is taking responsibility through concrete steps, including freezing exchange agreements with Israeli universities and carefully reviewing ongoing research collaborations. This is being done with diligence, transparency and consideration for a wide range of viewpoints.

In times of tension, it is vital that we keep talking to one another and create space for different perspectives – provided they respect democratic principles and do not lead to unnecessary polarisation, radicalisation or exclusion. A university should be a place where everyone feels heard, where robust debate is possible and where we can continue to think, question and challenge in safety.

We deeply regret that the Academy Building was occupied on the day of the Cleveringa Lecture. In 1940, Rudolph Cleveringa spoke out openly and at great personal risk against the dismissal of his Jewish colleagues. His actions symbolise courage, the rule of law and the protection of the vulnerable. That makes the timing of this action especially painful for many within and beyond the Jewish community.

We are grateful to Leiden Law School and the many staff, students and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure the lecture could go ahead in a fitting manner. This again shows the resilience of our community.

In these turbulent times, we hope we can continue to find common ground through dialogue, while respecting and considering each other’s emotions, histories and beliefs. Only then can we build the university we aspire to be: committed, courageous and connected.

Luc Sels, Hester Bijl and Timo Kos
Executive Board, Leiden University