Gaza Genocide02 April, 20261 min read
Three Flemish Universities Jointly Honor UN Rapporteur Francesca Albanese
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Three Flemish universities will confer an honorary doctorate on Francesca Albanese on April 2, 2026. Ceremony takes place in Antwerp, organized jointly by VUB, University of Antwerp, and Ghent University.
Historic Joint Honor
Three Flemish universities jointly awarded an honorary doctorate to Francesca Albanese, marking a first in Flanders. Albanese was praised for her exceptional commitment to human rights despite controversy. The decision ignited protests, particularly from Jewish organizations accusing her of antisemitism.
Controversy and Condemnation
The Forum of Jewish Organizations called for the universities to reverse their decision. At least one professor resigned in protest, and others described it as institutional activism. The Catholic University of Leuven declined to join the award.
Student Protests and Hypocrisy Accusations
The ceremony was met with pro-Palestinian student protests. Demonstrators welcomed the recognition but accused the universities of double standards. The award ceremony also took place alongside other doctoral conferrals.