Flemish universities file complaint with European Ombudsman over Israeli collaborations

UGent and other Flemish universities have filed a complaint with the European Ombudsman regarding the lack of a clear stance from the European Commission on Israeli academic collaborations. They seek a uniform approach to exit problematic partnerships without facing legal claims. The universities emphasize the need for clarity on how human rights are integrated into EU research projects, particularly Horizon Europe. Rector Petra De Sutter highlighted the absence of a sufficient European framework for universities prioritizing human rights in collaborations. While there have been pro-Palestinian protests at UGent advocating for a complete boycott of Israeli institutions, the university aims to maintain some collaborations with critical voices.