University of York response to recent events in Israel, Gaza and the Middle East

Posted on 9 October 2023

This page provides information about the University's support for those impacted by the recent events in Israel, Gaza and the Middle East.

Updated: Thursday 1 February 2024

News of the recent conflict is very upsetting, particularly for our students and colleagues with connections to the area. The University has reached out directly to impacted students to offer welfare and other types of support. We are working to ensure all members of the University community are supported as much as possible, and we will respond as appropriate as the situation develops.

We know that this is a difficult time for many of you, and that there's unlikely to be a quick resolution. We know too that many people will have strong views about the situation. As always, we ask all members of the University to remember that we are a community of respect, and we expect everyone to treat each other with fairness and compassion. We will never tolerate racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, abuse, incitement or harassment: any incidents of this should be reported.

We have created further information to support our community in response to the ongoing situation in Israel/Gaza. Please refer to this document for advice or understanding on how we are bringing our experts to the fore in discussions on the issues, freedom of speech/expression, organising events and managing discussions in the classroom/workplace.

Welfare support

Our International Student Support Team has reached out to all of our Israeli and Palestinian students to offer individual support and also to sign-post our Student Unions (YUSU and GSA).

We recognise that although not directly impacted, some students may still feel the impact of what is happening in the region, especially if you have family or loved ones there.

If you need support for any reason please use our Student support and advice services, talk to your department or college, or use the YUSU and GSA support services.

YUSU's support for students impacted by conflict in Israel and Palestine

Travel and student visas

If you have any research or fieldwork planned in the region, you must keep up-to-date with Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advice on travelling and speak to your supervisor before embarking on any travel.

If you're abroad

We know that in some countries protests, demonstrations and other activity related to events in Israel and Gaza are leading to heightened security measures and that some embassies have issued security or demonstration alerts. It is important to be aware of what is happening wherever you are: check the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advice for the country that you're visiting and sign up for email alerts.

If you're currently abroad, stay in contact with your department and follow any advice that's sent to you, either from your department in York or from your local institution. In an emergency, contact the local emergency services or our Campus Safety team: you can use the SafeZone app for this.

While you're away you should:

Download the SafeZone Mobile App if you have not already done so
Avoid protests, demonstrations, or areas with significant police activity
Be aware of your surroundings
Keep your phone charged
Keep in touch with friends, family and your department

Academic impacts

If you are in the region and you are unable to access online teaching or resources, please make contact with your department at the earliest opportunity so they can review how they might be able to support your learning.

There are a number of University processes in place to help you if the conflict has disrupted your studies or if you believe it will impact your ability to complete your exams or assessments.

How we respond to global crises

Sadly, this is one of several instances of conflict, or humanitarian disasters, affecting members of our community. Find out how we support our staff and students, as well as how members of our community can help.

Supporting those affected by global crises