The general assembly of the British University and College Union (UCU) has overwhelmingly voted to call on its members to "consider the moral and political implications of educational links with Israeli institutions, and to discuss the occupation with individuals and institutions concerned, including Israeli colleagues with whom they are collaborating". The motion had been carefully devised in the light of legal advice suggesting that an outright Israel boycott would be discriminatory and illegal. "In the face of accusations of anti-Semitism and legal threats we refused to be intimidated. We will protect the union from legal threats, but we will not be silenced," Tom Hickey, who proposed the motion, told delegates.
The head of the 'Stop the Boycott' campaign, Lorna Fitzsimons, said: "Boycotts of any kind do nothing to promote peace and moderation in the Middle East, as well as undermining the academic freedom and integrity of British academic institutions. A boycott has never been the right answer for those looking to genuinely help Palestinians and Israelis. The way forward must be to build bridges, encourage dialogue and allow ordinary Israelis and Palestinians the opportunity to engage with each other."
