Controversial Pro-Palestinian Radboud lecturer resigns

The social geographer Harry Pettit often posts radical tweets about Israel and the war in Gaza. For example, he wrote that it is time to "finish" what Hamas started on October 7. He also compared Zionism to Nazism, supported the armed resistance of Palestinians, and believes that the state of Israel should disappear.

Last month, nearly 21,000 people signed a petition against him. The outgoing Minister of Education, Gouke Moes (BBB), even threatened to intervene if the university itself did not take action against the lecturer. In response, Pettit filed a complaint against the minister.

Departure arrangement
Now Pettit is leaving of his own accord. Last summer, he was awarded a European research grant. These grants are personal, so he can take the money with him to another university.

He did not mention where he is going. He has agreed on a severance package with Radboud University Nijmegen and will donate the money to charities working for the liberation of Palestine.

According to him, the Executive Board threatened to dismiss him if he did not tone down his rhetoric. He calls it absurd that the university wants to silence people who speak out against Israel, "while Palestinians are being killed every day".

Response
Radboud University has responded briefly. "After an intensive process that lasted several months, Mr. Pettit and Radboud University have agreed to part ways," said a spokesperson. "Radboud University believes that he has made statements that are not in line with the university's code of conduct. Mr Pettit sees things differently."

Pettit tells the university magazine Vox that he looks back on his time at Radboud University with mixed feelings. "I feel relief, pride and sadness. I regret leaving my colleagues and inspiring students behind, but I could no longer accept working somewhere where voices against Zionism and genocide are silenced."