Students from the University of Wrocław occupied the university for 194 days in protest against the administration’s passivity regarding the genocide being committed against Palestinians, the legitimization of Israeli government actions through academic collaborations, and the indifference toward the ongoing destruction of academia in Palestine.
For 194 days, they fought to restore the university’s moral standards and to ensure that it becomes an institution unafraid to unequivocally criticize violations of international law.
Six days ago, the occupation officially ended. On December 13, the protesters signed an agreement with the authorities of the University of Wrocław.
Thanks to their admirable determination and nonviolent actions, the University of Wrocław has offered 20 spots to Palestinian students with reduced tuition fees and dormitory costs cut by 50%. Additionally, the Rector of the University of Wrocław established a Committee for the Ethical Assessment of International Academic Collaborations, published a public statement regarding the current situation in Palestine, and committed to advocating to central and local authorities for increased funding to support Palestinian students and enable Palestinian researchers to conduct academic work at the university.
What has been achieved through the efforts of the Solidarność Wro group is deeply heartening. We cannot hold back tears of emotion.
At the same time, we are aware that the solutions promised by the university authorities do not fully address the real needs or meet all the demands of the students. As the protesters wrote: “The agreement we signed is a compromise between grassroots resistance and the institution. It can never be a complete victory, but it is always a success, even if tinged with bitterness.”
As members of the Nomada Association, we express our immense admiration for those who fought for a university that does not silence its voice. We thank you for your deep empathy and persistence.
Photos: Konrad Żurawowicz
