University of Bremen demands respect: No place for hate on campus!

University of Bremen demands respect: No place for hate on campus!

On October 15, 2025, the Academic Senate of the University of Bremen adopted a groundbreaking statement calling for respectful and peaceful coexistence on campus. This statement is a direct response to increasing debates about the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on campus life. In recent months, tensions have increased significantly due to the violent events and the associated protests at German universities.

The University of Bremen shows great compassion and solidarity with everyone who suffers from attacks on universal values ​​and human rights. “We strive for a climate of acceptance and trust,” emphasizes the Academic Senate. This attitude is strengthened not least by the fact that a working group was set up to develop this statement. This happened against the background of the “Bundestag Anti-Semitism Resolution”, which triggered several debates in the Senate.

Adaptation to current developments

In recent years, universities in Germany have struggled with an increase in anti-Semitic incidents. This is in connection with the pro-Palestinian protests, which often included anti-Israel and anti-Semitic slogans. In January 2025, the Bundestag passed a cross-party resolution against anti-Semitism in education and science. Participation ranged from the SPD and the Union to the Greens and the FDP, while the AfD was in favor, the BSW voted against and the Left abstained. This response underlines the urgency with which the fight against anti-Semitism must be addressed.

The resolution requires, among other things, increased funding for anti-Semitism research and measures to support schools and universities in order to effectively combat anti-Semitic behavior. The Bundestag also called for compulsory visits to memorial sites for students and for teachers to be sensitized and trained in dealing with anti-Semitism.

The Academic Senate of the University of Bremen supports the resolution of the University Rectors' Conference (HRK) from November 2024, which rejects state intervention in academic discourse. At the University of Bremen, a clear stance is taken: There is no place for hatred, violence and agitation. Anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim and anti-Palestinian racism cannot be tolerated. A clear distinction is made here between legitimate criticism of state actions and discriminatory rhetoric.

Commitment to an open scientific culture

The critical examination of political developments is part of an open and democratic academic culture that is promoted at the university. The university management is committed to protecting all members of the university from discrimination and demands that all members contribute to respectful cooperation. These measures are particularly important given the challenges posed by the current situation in the Middle East, which have a major impact on the lives of many students and employees at the university.

Overall, the diversity of students and employees at the University of Bremen is seen as a significant enrichment. Through this initiative, the university wants to send a clear signal and advocate for the universal values ​​of peace, respect and human rights.