Students in dialogue: Questions to Israel's Consul General about the conflict
Students in dialogue: Questions to Israel's Consul General about the conflict
background of the dialogue at the Goethe University
The recent events in the Middle East, especially Hamas' terrorist attacks on Israel, have also greatly employed the students of the Goethe University in Frankfurt. For many, personal connections to the region can be felt, be it through family or friendly ties. In this context, the question arises as to how academic institutions deal with such explosive topics and what role the intercultural dialogue plays.
shift by security concerns
A conversation with Talya Lador-Fresher, the Israeli Consul General in Munich, was originally planned for the beginning of June. However, due to a protest meeting shown in the city, the Goethe University had to cancel the event. The university management no longer saw the security of the participants and the consulin general. The conversation was only made up for on July 8th after the situation was re -evaluated.intention behind the dialogue
In the run -up to the conversation, some students asked questions to the Consul General in writing. These affected in particular the reasons for their offerings and the effects of the cancellation at that time. Lador-Fresher made it clear that the dialogue aimed to share its perspective as a diplomat and to step into an exchange with the students. She emphasized how important it was to talk to each other in a safe framework.
abuse of protests for political agenda
Talya Lador-Fresher pointed out that the protests in front of the university are often shaped by anti-Semitic resentment. She criticized that there are often no reliable information at such events and that false information is circulating instead. In particular, she referred to the incident around the explosion at the Al-Ali Hospital on October 17, 2023, where the reports about the cause vary greatly. This shows how important it is to rely on facts to avoid misunderstandings.
Scientific exchange as an integral part of the relationships
Lador-Fresher was concerned about the strengthening of the BDS movement, which calls for a termination of scientific exchange with Israel. It emphasized the importance of this cooperation for German-Israeli relations and global civil society. An example of a successful exchange is the newly founded "Frankfurt-Tel Aviv Center for the Study of Religious and Interreligious Dynamics" that enriches religious studies.
The responsibility of the universities
The university rector conference has clearly known for the IRA definition of anti-Semitism, and this decision should ensure that universities do not give in to the pressure of ending the exchange. Such a demolition would be risky and disadvantageous for everyone involved and lead to a loss of well -founded scientific discussions.
conclusions for the future
The dialogue, as he is sought at the Goethe University, could be a step towards a better understanding between cultures. However, as can be seen from the statements of the Consul General, such an exchange is only possible if everyone involved is willing to listen without prejudice. The current climate of the split and promoting constructive conversations could not only benefit the academic community, but also to society as a whole.
The questions asked Antonia Steins and Malte Blaha.
- Nag