King's College London (KCL), a prestigious British educational institution, has decided to review its policy on investments in arms companies following mass protests by student unions, The times has reported.
The protests, organised by student unions in solidarity with Palestinians facing genocide in Gaza and against the brutalities of war committed by Israeli forces in the Strip, have motivated the decision, the British daily said.
The times Sources from the student union said the university administration has been considering these revisions to the investment policy since April.
The news website also cited a statement on Instagram by Hassan Ali, vice president of the students' union at King's College London, saying: “The university will no longer invest in companies engaged in the production or distribution of controversial weapons.”
Stating that an understanding was reached between KCL finance executives at the university on Monday, sources confirmed to The times A formal agreement to finalize the decision is expected to be reached in October.
In addition, it was added that a statement would be incorporated into King's College London's framework on environment, society and governance under a clause on “controversial weapons.” “… the university will not make any direct or indirect investment (through common funds) in companies that are considered to be involved in controversial weapons,” according to the statement by the student union leader cited by the British newspaper.
“In this context, cluster bombs, landmines, depleted uranium weapons, chemical and biological weapons, blinding laser weapons, undetectable fragments and incendiary weapons (white phosphorus) are considered controversial weapons. Exposure to such investments will be regularly monitored,” the news website added.
“This milestone is a testament to the power of our community’s dedication and perseverance.” The times quoted Ali as saying in his statement.
Since the Hamas attack on 7 October and Israel’s response in Gaza, several British university campuses have been the scene of mass student protests. Student unionists and activists at universities across the country are accusing their institutions of being “complicit in genocide” and calling for an end to investments in Israeli companies and defence firms that supply arms to Israel.
