UCD Students’ Union Statement

UCD Students' Union (UCDSU) is deeply concerned by the escalation of violence in the occupied Palestinian territories and in Israel in recent weeks, the resulting loss of innocent lives, and the potential for further escalation in the Middle East. 

These developments are a direct outcome of Israel's blockade and restriction of Gaza and the West Bank, along with its policies of apartheid and the forced displacement it enforces in the West Bank and within its own boundaries.

Calls that Gaza maintains access to essential necessities such as food, medicine, fuel, and humanitarian aid should immediately be heeded, but they do not go far enough. The plight of the Palestinian people has been fastened by the role played by the international community, in particular the United States and the European Union, both of which have been active participants on the perpetuation of war crimes against the Palestinian people. 

Since 2018, UCD Students’ Union has been a supporter of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign and in line with policy set by Union Council, has organised Palestine Awareness initiatives both on campus and online. We call upon international powers and the Israeli Government to bring about an immediate ceasefire and bring the campaign of genocide to a halt. Moreover, the ongoing and violent occupation of Palestine must be brought to an end.

The raid carried out by Hamas on October 7th has been rightly condemned. It is still vital that the broader context and root cause of this violence, decades of hostile military rule over an entire civilian population, is not forgotten. Therefore, we also condemn elements within the media which seek to offer propaganda cover for the colossal damage being done to Gaza, as well as the world’s largest social media platforms, which appear to be curtailing the reach of content that is critical of the actions of the Israeli Government

UCDSU recognises the deep emotional toll of the violence on students from impacted communities and stands in solidarity with students facing heightened levels of Islamophobia and antisemitism. Our campus offers a range of resources and services that may be of use at this time. Whether it's access to counselling, academic support, or just someone to talk to, UCDSU is also here to ensure all students have the help and guidance that they need.