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University of Brussels debates controversial naming of graduating class after Rima Hassan
The Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) is set to make a pivotal decision regarding the naming of its graduating law class in honor of Rima Hassan, a Franco-Palestinian Member of the European Parliament whose political stance has sparked intense controversy. The debate centers on whether this choice tarnishes the university's reputation or symbolizes a bold stand for international law and human rights.
A polarizing figure
Rima Hassan, a 33-year-old jurist and member of the radical leftist French party La France Insoumise (LFI), has faced widespread scrutiny. She is currently under investigation in France for "apology of terrorism" following remarks perceived as supportive of Hamas after the group’s October 7 attacks. Known for her sharp criticism of Israel, Hassan was expelled from the country in mid-June after attempting to reach Gaza by boat in defiance of the Israeli blockade.
This controversy has ignited fierce debates within the academic and political spheres in Belgium. The decision to name the class after her, voted on earlier this summer by law students, is to be reviewed by the faculty council, which includes professors and student representatives. A final ruling is expected by the end of the day.
Strong opposition
In an open letter published in Belgian media, dozens of French public figures urged ULB to reject the naming. Signatories, including lawyer Arno Klarsfeld and former ministers Bernard Kouchner and Luc Ferry, argued that associating with Hassan would damage the university's reputation. They condemned what they described as the students’ “tragic blindness” to Hassan’s support for Hamas, which she has referred to as a legitimate arm of Palestinian "resistance."
Belgian political figures have also weighed in. Georges-Louis Bouchez, leader of the francophone conservative party MR, declared on social media that “academic authorities cannot yield to the dictates of the far-left.”
A symbolic stance
Law students, however, have defended their decision, calling it a courageous act. According to advocates of the naming, it highlights the ongoing failure of international bodies to address alleged war crimes and human rights abuses in Gaza. Violaine La Fontaine, a student from the graduating class, stated that the move was meant to break the silence surrounding the conflict. Her video message defending the choice has garnered widespread attention, including a “like” from Hassan herself.
The eurodeputy’s office expressed hope that the university would respect the democratic process through which the students selected the name. Meanwhile, Pierre Klein, dean of the law faculty, noted that the faculty council has historically upheld student decisions in such matters.
Broader context
The controversy at ULB reflects a growing trend of campus activism around the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Similar debates have emerged globally, with universities becoming focal points for heated discussions on human rights and international policy. In the United States, the Trump administration imposed a billion-dollar fine on the University of California in 2024 for hosting pro-Palestinian demonstrations deemed disruptive.
As ULB prepares to announce its decision, the outcome will likely reverberate far beyond its campus, influencing ongoing debates about academic freedom, political expression, and the boundaries of solidarity.
