Activists disrupt WUR-President Louise Fresco’s speech. Photo: Guy Ackermans The opening of the academic year was live-streamed this year. During the opening address by WUR-president Louise Fresco, several Extinction Rebellion (XR) activists, armed with a bullhorn and banners, climbed the stage. After a few seconds, the camera panned to an angle from which the activists were not visible, and sound technicians muted the sound. After a short break, Fresco resumed her speech.
Masters student Geo-Information Science Kamiel Verhelst (22) was involved in this protest, which he considers successful, despite the intervention by the directors. ‘We managed to make our presence known to all the viewers of the live stream and the board, and our message was adequately picked up on social media.’
Not taken seriously
According to Verhelst, the XR members feel they are not being taken seriously by the executive board. ‘While our message is extremely serious. We demand transparency about collaboration with the private sector; we want a strong policy on the climate- and ecological crisis, and we want students and staff to be involved in decision-making.’
Verhelst is aware that there are other methods to achieve this. ‘We have contributed to the student council. Unfortunately, we see that change is brought about very slowly. We will continue our discussions with the university, but, pending changes, we will also continue to take action in other, more direct ways.’
Check out the action here:
Not the correct approach
University spokesperson Annet Blanken was less enthusiastic about the protest. ‘A demonstration requires permission from the security region so that it can be carried out safely, especially with the corona outbreak. We are willing to enter into discussions; there is no need to disrupt a ceremony.’
‘In January, there was a dialogue with Arthur Mol (rector magnificus, Ed.) on the climate issue. A dialogue on collaboration with the private sector was planned for March but had to be postponed due to the corona pandemic. We are still interested in having this dialogue, but we want to do so properly.’
Blanken has reached out to the XR protesters to discuss the events. ‘A dialogue is not just stating what you want, but also listening to each other. Agreements can not be unilaterally enforced.’