University launches independent evaluation of security at opening of academic year

Tilburg University has commissioned an independent evaluation of the security measures taken during the Opening of the Academic Year on September 1. The Executive Board is responding to complaints from students and staff about intimidating experiences with security personnel.

According to the Executive Board, not everything went according to plan during the opening ceremony. “Students and staff had experiences they perceived as intimidating. For this, we offer our sincere apologies,” the Executive Board wrote. Although security staff acted under time pressure, the university acknowledges that some situations were painful and that the execution of the safety measures could have been handled better.

Staff and students criticized the heavy-handed security during the event. Some visitors were denied access to buildings, names and numbers were recorded, and selective searches were carried out. Jan Brouwer, emeritus professor of general jurisprudence, called the measures in an interview with Univers “unlawful and utterly unacceptable.”

Independent Evaluation Initiated

To provide clarity, an independent evaluation has been launched. All parties involved will have the opportunity to share their experiences. “We take all questions, signals, and concerns very seriously, and they will be fully included in the evaluation,” the Executive Board stated.

The evaluation is expected to be completed by mid-October, after which the findings will be shared with the Executive Board.

Heightened Security After Earlier Occupation

The Executive Board emphasizes that the right to demonstrate is highly valued. Demonstrations are allowed as much as possible, and dialogue is sought with demonstrators to ensure safe conduct.

At the same time, the university stresses the context in which the security measures were taken. After the occupation of the Dante building during Night University, there was increased vigilance against possible disruptions. This led to heightened security measures, such as a guarded cloakroom and additional security staff.

Agreement on Silent Protest

The Executive Board also points out that clear arrangements had been made with Palestine Solidarity Tilburg (PST). “It was agreed with Palestine Solidarity Tilburg (PST) that a silent protest outside would be possible, but for the safety of all present, not inside the Cobbenhagen building, where the official opening took place. We wanted to prevent the protest from moving from outside to inside.”

The Executive Board stresses that it was never the intention to exclude students on the basis of clothing or beliefs.