After sustained protests, Brown University in the United States has agreed to hold a vote on divesting from Israel-affiliated companies, leading student organisers to dismantle their encampment on campus.
The decision comes with a commitment from the administration to facilitate a vote on divestment, marking a significant concession following student demonstrations demanding action against investments in companies linked to the Israeli government.
The agreement stipulates that the encampment, situated on the Main Green, will be dismantled, and there will be no unauthorised protests until May 26.
Students had been advocating for divestment and the dismissal of charges against 41 peers arrested during a sit-in at University Hall in December, though the charges remain outstanding.
This development reflects the growing momentum of the student-led movement across the US and internationally, denouncing the Israeli war on Gaza and urging universities to divest from companies supporting Israel.
In a statement, Brown President Christina Paxson acknowledged the calls for change prompted by the Middle East conflict and committed to addressing the issue through dialogue and debate.
As part of the agreement, a group of students will meet with members of the Corporation of Brown University to discuss divestment during the May Corporation meeting. The university will seek a recommendation from the Advisory Committee on University Resources Management regarding divestment by September 30, 2024, with a vote scheduled for the October 2024 Corporation meeting.
Additionally, the university pledged not to retaliate against any member of the Brown community involved in the encampment or related activities, safeguarding them from expulsion or suspension, though internal disciplinary action may still be taken.
The Brown Divest Coalition hailed the agreement as a significant victory, showing the power of student activism and the national movement advocating for Palestine.