Adelaide University Cancels Event Featuring UN Rapporteur Francesca Albanese

Adelaide University has faced significant backlash after canceling a scheduled event featuring Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories. The event, part of the Constellations: Not Writers’ Week festival, was set to take place at Elder Hall but was abruptly relocated to Norwood Concert Hall after the university cited procedural issues and health and safety concerns. Organizers claim they had adhered to the necessary booking processes, leading to accusations that the university capitulated to external pressures.

The Guardian

Adelaide University stated that it was unaware of the event until the previous Friday and could not accept the booking due to a failure to follow the required review and approval process. The university emphasized its commitment to ensuring the safety and comfort of attendees and maintaining high standards for public events. In contrast, the Association for the Promotion of International Law (APIL), which organized the event, argued that they had communicated with the university well in advance and that no procedural issues were raised until shortly before the cancellation.

The Guardian

The decision has drawn criticism from various quarters. Chris Sidoti, the event's moderator and a member of the UN Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, described the university's actions as a failure to uphold free speech. He stated, “For Adelaide University to crumble in fear of possible criticism... is reprehensible.” Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young also expressed concern, stating that the cancellation reflects a culture of fear within institutions that should foster open dialogue. She called for an explanation, emphasizing the importance of engaging with challenging ideas.

Adelaide University Needs To Explain Event Cancellation

The controversy surrounding the event is set against a backdrop of heightened scrutiny on Francesca Albanese. In July, the Trump administration placed her on a sanctions list, accusing her of antisemitism and undermining U.S. and Israeli interests. This political context has intensified the debate over academic freedom and the role of universities in facilitating discussions on contentious topics.

The Guardian

Despite the cancellation at Adelaide University, the event will proceed at the new venue, with Albanese participating via video link. This move has been interpreted as a demonstration of public support for free expression, as the event sold out quickly. The ongoing discourse surrounding this incident raises questions about the future of academic freedom and the responsibilities of educational institutions in Australia.

The Guardian

• “A university incapable of upholding free speech no longer merits to be called a university.” — Chris Sidoti, Moderator

The Guardian

• “You cannot cancel curiosity, you cannot cancel compassion, and you cannot silence a city that believes in the exchange of ideas and freedom of expression.” — Sarah Hanson-Young, Greens Senator

Adelaide University Needs To Explain Event Cancellation

• “Welcome once again to Moscow on the Torrens,” — Louise Adler, Former Director of Adelaide Writers' Week

The Guardian

• “Adelaide University really needs to explain why they have cancelled the booking for an event featuring one of the world’s leading legal experts in international law and human rights in the Middle East,” — Sarah Hanson-Young, Greens Senator

ABC News Australia