Open Letter: Oxford University and Union must recommit to respectful and tolerant debate

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As academics, leaders, students and alumni of the University of Oxford, we write with enormous concern about the toxic and polarising Oxford Union debate on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict which took place on 28 November. While discussing issues like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is vital, dangerous rhetoric, provocative behaviour, and acts of intimidation have no place in such forums.

We unequivocally condemn the incendiary remarks made by some speakers in support of Hamas and terrorist violence. Such statements are not only morally reprehensible but also in clear violation of the law. Glorifying acts of violence under the guise of advocating for Palestinian rights serves neither justice nor peace. It undermines the legitimate efforts of those seeking a peaceful resolution to this longstanding conflict and alienates those who might otherwise be willing to engage in constructive dialogue.

Similarly, we must address other aggressive and inflammatory behaviour exhibited by speakers during the debate. Rhetoric and behaviour designed to provoke, belittle, or intimidate opponents has no place in a forum dedicated to respectful intellectual exchange. Debate should challenge ideas, not debase and attack entire communities. Whilst attempts were made to persuade the Union not to invite certain speakers who appeared on the debate, such attempts were ignored. 

We also unequivocally condemn antisemitism in all its forms. Reports that Jewish students felt threatened or intimidated during and after the debate are deeply disturbing. The university and the Union have a duty to ensure that Jewish students—and all minority groups—feel safe, respected, and protected from hate and harassment.

This debate highlights a broader issue: the increasingly toxic environment surrounding discussions of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict within university settings. Such debates have never been more heated, but they must remain spaces where ideas can be exchanged with civility and within the bounds of the law. A university community that values free speech must also value respect and tolerance.

The event was a failure on all counts. Rather than fostering meaningful dialogue, the debate descended into a display of hostility and division, which also saw deeply personal attacks made against the Vice Chancellor. This is not only a failure of the Union but also a reflection of the challenges faced by universities in managing these complex and emotive discussions.

We urge the university and the Oxford Union to recommit to creating an environment where free speech is protected, but where that freedom is exercised responsibly. Safeguarding the rights of all students, particularly those from Jewish and other minority backgrounds, must be a priority. Achieving this balance will require leadership, vigilance, and a concerted effort to cultivate a culture of mutual respect and understanding.

Let Thursday’s debate be a turning point. Let it serve as a reminder that while disagreement is inevitable in discussions of such gravity, the manner in which we engage is just as important as the ideas we share. Anything less is a betrayal of the university’s values and a disservice to its community.

Yours sincerely,

Baroness Ruth Deech KC, Former Principal, St Anne's College 

Professor Sir Vernon Bogdanor CBE, FBE,  Former Vice Principal and Acting Principal, Brasenose College 

Professor Raymond Dwek, CBE FRS FRSC

Dr Fania Oz-Salzberger, Professor of History, University of Haifa

Professor Peter Michael Stephan Hacker, Emeritus Fellow St John's College, Honorary Fellow, The Queen's College

Professor Michael Yudkin, Emeritus professor of Biochemistry, Emeritus Fellow of Kellogg College

Dr. Walter Bodmer FRS HonFRSE FMedSci, Emeritus Fellow and Head of Laboratory Department of Oncology, Hertford College

Professor Jonathan Katz, Brasenose College

Professor Ashley Grossman, Green Templeton College

Professor Paulina Kewes, Jesus College

Professor Susan Doran, Jesus College

Professor Michael Bronstein, Department of Computer Science

Dr. Bysshe Inigo Coffey, Balliol College

Dr Anton van der Merwe, Senior Member Oxford University Israel Society 

Rabbi Moshe Blum, Jewish Student Chaplain

Rabbi Eli Brackman, Director Oxford University Chabad Society

Eylon Levy, Former Israeli Government Spokesman

Peter Kessler MBE

Neville Teller MBE

Dr Jozef. A. Kosc, Academic Director, The Pinsker Centre and University of Florida

Laura Butcher, Secretary of the Oxford Israel Society and Pinsker Centre Policy Fellow

Eliana Wolfson, President-Elect of Oxford Jewish Society and Pinsker Centre Policy Fellow

Yoav Roll, Co-President of Oxford Israel Society 

Jonathan Hunter, Chair of The Pinsker Centre

Charles Woods, Vice Chair of The Pinsker Centre

& 343 other signatories (last updated 22:17, 04/12/2024)