Union of Jewish Students publishes guidance for universities

The Union of Jewish Students has published guidance for universities and student unions to tackle campus antisemitism. 

The guidance, delivered with a foreword from Lord Mann, the government’s independent advisor on antisemitism, sets out a framework of recommendations designed to support institutions navigating complex issues, seeking to support Jewish students and uphold the open character of university life.

It offers recommendations on religious freedom, education on antisemitism and the Holocaust and incident response advice.

UJS president Louis Danker said: “As universities navigate the complex challenge of combatting normalised antisemitism, UJS has a crucial role in supporting them to best serve their Jewish students. We’ve compiled a comprehensive set of best practice, based on engagement across the higher education sector, to ensure Jewish students’ belonging and prosperity on campus is protected and enhanced. We are excited to work with university and students’ union leaders to ensure they implement our recommendations across their institutions”.

Universities UK chief executive Vivienne Stern added: “Antisemitism is a growing threat to our society and we must all act together to counter it. Universities are uniquely well placed to play a positive role – not only by acting to ensure Jewish students and staff are welcome, safe and supported on our campuses, but also by educating campus communities to recognise racial and religious harassment, and to understand where the boundaries between legitimate protest and antisemitism lie. We will continue to work with those in the sector and beyond to make a difference.”