Since the outbreak of conflict in October last year, campuses across the United States have witnessed a wave of student movements, particularly at Ivy League schools, which have drawn considerable attention. The focus has shifted to how these institutions respond to student demands while maintaining campus stability. Under increasing pressure and criticism, three university presidents have resigned. But does this move truly quell the unrest, or is it merely a superficial fix?
Take the case of Columbia University President Minouche Shafik, who recently announced her resignation. The demands from students—including calls for the university to divest from companies profiting from Israeli apartheid and sever academic ties with Israeli institutions—are not decisions she can make unilaterally. The university’s board actually holds a larger share of the decision-making power, while the president acts more like a “professional manager” navigating between opposing sides. Any misstep in handling these demands can lead to backlash from both camps.
The rejection of student demands is rooted not only in the president’s stance but also reflects the board’s position, meaning that even if she were to be replaced, it would not resolve the issue. If the interim president fails to take effective measures to foster dialogue among differing viewpoints on campus, the frustration and anger among students are likely to persist.
Moreover, the debate surrounding the Israel-Palestine issue at Columbia is not just an ideological or political matter; it’s a complex topic involving the university’s values, freedom of speech, and campus safety. Many students and faculty feel that President Shafik’s actions stem from a deeper issue—not just her unwillingness to meet student demands, but her decision to authorize campus police to arrest protesting students.
This decision has left students disheartened and faculty disappointed, as universities are supposed to be havens for free expression, and student movements have historically been a driving force for social change. While the Israel-Palestine conflict embodies highly sensitive racial and political issues, the choice to handcuff protesting students contradicts the fundamental mission of higher education. From this perspective, President Shafik’s resignation seems warranted.
