Institutions of Higher Education - The university's president expresses regret over students' controversial likes praising Gaza.
The president of the Technical University of Berlin, Geraldine Rauch, has issued an apology for liking questionable posts on social media regarding the conflict in Gaza. Prior to apologizing, Berlin's Science Senator Ina Czyborra voiced her desire for clarification during a private conversation with Rauch.
Rauch confessed that she had liked some tweets on the platform X, which contained controversial views on the situation in Gaza and Rafah, but had anti-Semitic contexts or origins. She made it a priority to disassociate herself from the anti-Semitic content or authors of these posts.
Recently, her X account has been removed, preventing others from discovering her 'likes' on the platform. Previously, it was reported that she had liked posts on X where the Gaza war was described as a genocide and Israel was referred to as a war criminal.
In a statement, Rauch stated that she had liked a tweet due to its text while failing to notice the offensive image included in it. "I acknowledge that this was an error, and I am genuinely sorry for it. The image included in the tweet uses symbols and comparisons that I fundamentally disagree with and reject." She was referring to a post with demonstrators holding a sign with a swastika painted on it depicting Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Czyborra previously stated that it should be clear that Berlin universities do not endorse violence, anti-Semitism, and uphold democratic values. "As such, political statements, whether public or private, must be carefully considered and handled with prudence. This is particularly important for university representatives representing Berlin's academic landscape."
Federal Government Anti-Semitism Commissioner, Felix Klein, shared his understanding of Jewish students' and anyone else's shock over Rauch's behavior. Klein expressed his sentiments to "Bild," saying, "How can Jewish students trust a university president with their safety when she approves of statements that reflect the very anti-Semitism that renders many campuses unsafe for Jews and those who will not tolerate anti-Semitism?"
Additionally, the Technical University of Berlin is facing criticism for its recent appointment of its new anti-Semitism commissioner, Uffa Jensen. The Central Council of Jews described this appointment as "disappointing" and alleged that Jensen is in opposition of the anti-Semitism definition established by the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA). In response, Jensen stated that he had "criticized the definition, much like many of my Jewish colleagues," but ultimately supported it.
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The controversy surrounding Geraldine Rauch's social media likes has sparked discussions in the Palestinian territories, including Gaza. Many have expressed concern over the dismissal of the Gaza war as a genocide and the labeling of Israel as a war criminal.
Rauch's removing of her X account has not stopped the backlash, with some calling for her resignation from her position at the Technical University of Berlin (TU). This calls for action have gained traction, even reaching prominent figures such as Gerlinde Rauch, a known activist for Palestinian rights.
The controversy has also led to scrutiny of TU's recent appointment of its new anti-Semitism commissioner, Uffa Jensen. Critics argue that Jensen's stance on the IHRA definition of anti-Semitism raises concerns about the university's commitment to combating hate speech.
In a statement, Jensen acknowledged his criticisms of the IHRA definition but emphasized his support for its core principles, highlighting his dedication to promoting respectful dialogue and understanding.
The Gaza war, as a contentious issue, has led to extremist views being disseminated online, fueling global debates and tensions. This issue is not isolated to Berlin or German universities but is a growing concern in academic circles worldwide.
The events surrounding Rauch have raised questions about the role of university leaders in addressing sensitive political issues and ensuring their institution upholds democratic values and rejects all forms of hate speech, including anti-Semitism.
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