Berlin University Cancels Francesca Albanese's Gaza Lecture After Political Pressure

The Freie Universität Berlin cited safety concerns following criticism of the UN expert's views on Israel and Gaza.

Francesca Albanese, the UN Special Rapporteur for Palestinian Territories, was scheduled to give a lecture at Freie Universität Berlin on February 19, 2025, but the event was canceled due to security concerns.
The cancellation followed intense criticism from political figures, including Berlin's mayor and the Israeli ambassador to Germany, who accused Albanese of antisemitism and downplaying terrorism.
The university stated that the decision was made due to the polarized atmosphere and potential safety risks, offering an online alternative that the organizers declined.
Albanese, known for her criticism of Israeli policies in Gaza and accusations of apartheid and genocide, has faced similar cancellations at other German universities recently.
Critics of the cancellation, including faculty members, argue that it undermines academic freedom and the ability to discuss contentious international legal and human rights issues.