The UV calls for dialogue and negotiation to end Gaza crisis
In her speech to the Governing Council, the Principal of the Universitat de València called for respect for human rights, both in the Israeli conflict and in other armed conflicts. This stance was unanimously shared by the members of the highest governing body of the UV.
9 de november de 2023
The GoverningCouncil of the Universitat de València met this Thursday9 November, in ordinary session, in the Office of the Principal of the UV.
In her report to the GoverningCouncil, MariaVicenta Mestre, the Principal of the Universitat de València, referred to the war situation in Israel and Gaza, in line with the manifesto of CRUE-Spanish Universities. Certainly, she did not forget the civil war in Syria and the armed conflict initiated by Russia in Ukraine.
In addition, the Principal emphasised the core values of the UV, included in its Statutes, and explained that the UV “cannot fail to reiterate its commitment to peace, justice, human rights and democratic values. The fundamental values of the Universitat de València must lead us to condemn all types of violence. There is no exception that justifies the terrorist attacks by Hamas in Israel, nor the taking of hostages.”
“Israel’s right to defence has to be in accordance with International Law and International Humanitarian Law. There is no place for a violation of human rights, no cause that justifies collective punishment of civilians in Gaza and no reason to prevent securing United Nations facilities, schools, hospitals, health centres and refugee camps,” said the Principal, who pointed out that “the number of children killed adds up to figures of true horror. It is shocking that they seem like numbers, but sadly, they are innocent victims who have not had the chance to flee their tragic fate.”
In this conflict, “rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access must be guaranteed to facilitate the entry of vital supplies into Gaza”, said the Principal of the Universitat de València.
In her speech, she called for dialogue and negotiation to end Gaza crisis:
“From the commitment to dialogue and negotiation for the resolution of an armed conflict that will guarantee peace and stability in this territory, the Universitat de València must support everything indicated by the UnitedNations: concern for the danger of indiscriminate or disproportionate action, respect for International Law and the request for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza.”
The Principal of the UV also added that “it is up to all of us to call for an end to the violence.”