Overview
- Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur for Palestinian Territories, is scheduled to speak at Berlin's Freie Universität on February 19, sparking widespread criticism.
- Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner, the Israeli ambassador, and Jewish organizations have called for the event's cancellation, citing Albanese's alleged antisemitic statements and Holocaust comparisons.
- The event also features Israeli architect Eyal Weizman, whose work has drawn criticism for alleged associations with Hamas sympathizers and claims of Israeli genocide in Gaza.
- The university has stated it is reviewing concerns raised about the event while emphasizing its commitment to addressing safety and antisemitism on campus.
- Albanese has previously faced backlash for controversial remarks about Israel, including accusations of downplaying Hamas violence and perpetuating antisemitic conspiracy theories.