University of Birmingham takes legal action against pro-Palestinian demonstrations | News

The University of Birmingham has applied for a possession order to end the disruption on campus.

The University of Birmingham has told us that it is “with a heavy heart” that it has launched legal action to stop pro-Palestinian demonstrations taking place on campus since May 9.

Tents were pitched in several parts of the campus, leading to disruption for students.

We were told that the demonstrations escalated, some of the buildings were damaged.

The university told us: “We recognize that some students and staff may wish to take part in protests about issues that matter to them and respect their right to do so peacefully in accordance with law and University regulations. However, this does not include setting up a camp and occupying University land, to the detriment of the rest of the university community.

“Unfortunately, there has also been an escalation of recent actions, including the disruption of student activities such as the Grad Ball, red paint being sprayed in the Aston Webb building causing significant damage and groups wearing masks shouting at staff. It’s important that everyone on campus should be able to go about their business without fear of intimidation and without feeling like there are parts of campus they can’t go to.

“Legal action is not a decision taken lightly, but is necessary to look after the interests of the entire university community. In parallel, we will continue to seek dialogue and push for an alternative solution, which the camp has so far refused to do despite repeated promotions.”

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