UN Experts Condemn U.S. Crackdown on Pro-Palestine Student Protests, Urge Protection of Academic Freedom

The statement warned that punitive measures—such as expelling students, revoking visas, and blocking the completion of academic programs—pose severe consequences for students’ futures.

A coalition of independent human rights experts has strongly urged the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to halt alleged repression and retaliatory measures against students and faculty participating in pro-Palestinian protests on university campuses. The experts warn that the reported detentions, visa revocations, and removals of international students are not only arbitrary but also undermine fundamental democratic values, including freedom of expression and academic freedom.

“These actions are disproportionate, unnecessary, and discriminatory,” the experts said in a statement. “They will only deepen existing divisions, exacerbate trauma, and create an environment of fear and self-censorship on university campuses.”

The United Nations-affiliated experts have repeatedly raised concerns with the U.S. government regarding reprisals against students, faculty members, and citizens who have participated in peaceful pro-Palestine demonstrations at educational institutions. Their latest statement comes amid reports that international students engaged in such protests have faced threats of deportation, while lawful permanent residents have encountered legal repercussions for their participation.

Escalating Tensions and a Climate of Fear on Campuses

The intensification of hostilities in Gaza has ignited a wave of student activism across the United States, with protests, teach-ins, and solidarity demonstrations taking place at numerous universities. These actions have provoked contrasting responses, with some institutions defending students’ rights to free expression while others have cracked down on demonstrations under pressure from external actors, including government officials and advocacy groups.

Reports indicate that university administrators, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, have taken measures that include monitoring student activities, sharing personal data with external authorities, and imposing disciplinary actions that disproportionately impact international students and faculty members with precarious immigration statuses.

The experts underscored the urgent need to prevent further escalation. “Instances of intimidation and harassment on social media and physical attacks have effectively transformed campuses into divided communities,” they noted. “There is a dire need for reconciliation, mutual respect, and an environment conducive to open dialogue.”

Academic Freedom Under Threat

The statement warned that punitive measures—such as expelling students, revoking visas, and blocking the completion of academic programs—pose severe consequences for students’ futures. “Denying students the right to complete their education is devastating. It prevents them from achieving their academic and professional aspirations and constitutes a disproportionate response to peaceful protest,” the experts stated.

They went further, comparing such actions to those employed by authoritarian regimes. “This type of action is more often associated with oppressive institutions that seek to silence dissent rather than foster democratic discourse.”

The experts also emphasized the gendered impact of such repression, highlighting that female students, who already face systemic challenges in accessing higher education and equal opportunities, are particularly vulnerable. Retaliatory actions against protestors, they argued, undermine broader efforts toward gender equality and non-discrimination.

Call for Institutional Reform and Protection of Student Rights

In their recommendations, the experts urged universities to protect students’ right to freedom of expression and assembly. They called on academic institutions to:

• Cease all surveillance and monitoring of students engaging in peaceful protest.
• Refrain from sharing students’ personal data with external actors, including law enforcement agencies.
• Align university policies with international human rights law to safeguard students from arbitrary punishment.

The experts further emphasized the importance of establishing mechanisms for conflict resolution within university communities. “There is an urgent need to facilitate mediation between students and faculty members of differing views to build mutual understanding and address concerns of harassment, discrimination, fear, pain, and isolation.”

A Plea for Constructive Dialogue and Reconciliation

As divisions deepen, the experts urged all stakeholders—including university administrations, government agencies, and student organizations—to engage in good-faith dialogue. Their statement called for universities to foster an inclusive atmosphere that respects diverse perspectives while upholding the fundamental human rights of all students and faculty members.

“Repression and retaliation will not promote peace or academic integrity,” they stressed. “Instead, institutions must work towards consolidating their communities through compassion, open dialogue, and mutual respect.”

In an increasingly polarized climate, the international community will continue to monitor developments closely, holding U.S. authorities accountable for any violations of human rights and academic freedom. The experts reiterated their commitment to ensuring that educational institutions remain spaces of intellectual exploration, free expression, and meaningful engagement with pressing global issues.