University College Cork engages with UCC Students’ Union on Gaza humanitarian crisis

9 May 2024

• The university confirms its position and actions in line with UCC's commitment to ethical and responsible global engagement.

University College Cork (UCC) can confirm that it is engaging with UCC Students’ Union on issues raised regarding the university’s position on the conflict in Gaza.

The events of October 7 in Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza are heinous and abhorrent, both of which UCC condemns. The destruction of homes, hospitals, universities and schools in Gaza is horrifying and aid must immediately reach those suffering. The University Leadership Team stands firmly with the national and international calls for an end to violence, the release of hostages and an immediate and permanent ceasefire.

UCC confirms its position on the following issues:

• In order to address the immediate need of Palestinian students and scholars displaced or at risk, the university is establishing a Palestine Emergency Response Working Group, involving SU representation. This Group will identify ways to make existing UCC Sanctuary Scholarships available to displaced Palestinian students, while seeking opportunities to expand the university’s current Scholars at Risk programme for those displaced or at risk as a result of the conflict.
• UCC is committed to advocating within the IUA for a national, sector-wide approach to sustained support for displaced Palestinian students.
• UCC has identified that one of the university’s funds, which is invested on UCC’s behalf by investment managers, has a very small exposure with an Israeli financial institution. The amount constitutes less than half a percent of the university’s overall investments and UCC are already engaged in a process of divesting from this investment. This process is expected to conclude by the end of May.

In line with the university’s commitment to ethical and responsible global engagement, UCC will: 

• Work with the academic community, including students, to develop an ethical, human rights-based framework to guide UCC’s academic, research and business activity in line with the university’s values, including UCC’s commitment to academic freedom, and the university’s mission. This will draw on the NUI Human Rights Principles and Code of Conduct and other international standards and guidance.
• Undertake a review of all current relationships, including research and industry partnerships, in line with this framework.
• Consider what other steps might be taken by the University in order to foster the principles and values of our university community and the responsibilities associated with UCC’s role in the world.

A copy of the letter sent to UCC Students' Union on 9 May 2024 can be viewed here.