Statement on the war in Israel and Gaza

No. 35.1 - 05.11.2025

Statement by the Presidential Board, the Senate and the Deans of the University of Göttingen

We welcome the ceasefire in the Gaza war and the release of the hostages kidnapped by Hamas. These developments fill us with hope that they mark the beginning of a comprehensive peace process in the Middle East – with the goal of a peaceful and self-determined future for the Israeli and Palestinian populations alike.

We are very concerned about the humanitarian situation of the civilian population in the Gaza Strip. We call for comprehensive efforts to improve the living conditions of the people there quickly and sustainably. At the same time, we reaffirm our determination to work for peace, security and protection from all forms of terror – in Israel as well as in the territories occupied by Israel.

Our solidarity is with all people who suffer from unjust treatment, violence, war, terror or discrimination – regardless of ethnicity, gender or religion. The University of Göttingen's clear condemnation of the Hamas terror attacks of October 2023 remains unreserved.

The University of Göttingen protects and promotes the freedom, diversity and dignity of its members. This includes ensuring that the University remains a forum for the non-discriminatory exchange of opinions. We do not accept insults, threats and calls for violence against institutes and members of our University and will resolutely defend ourselves against them with the means at our disposal. We offer support to those affected through contact and counselling centres.

We also firmly reject demands to stop academic cooperation with Israeli institutes or academics across the board or to prevent their academic activities on our campus. We see academic exchange with colleagues from Israel and Palestine not least as a contribution to mutual understanding and peaceful development.

Our mission statement concludes with the words:

"The University is committed to peace and justice in the world. The University and its academics endeavour to serve peace in the world through research and teaching. In their actions, they are committed to the ethical principles inherent in science in their responsibility to society."

These principles guide our actions – in research, teaching and international co-operation.

IN PUBLICA COMMODA – For the benefit of all

Presidential Board, Senate and Deans of the University of Göttingen 

Meeting of the Academic Senate on 5 November 2025