The University of Cambridge has lost its attempt to secure a five-year injunction banning protests related to the Israel-Palestine conflict on its premises. The High Court ruled against the university’s long-term request but granted a limited interim order for specific locations ahead of an upcoming graduation ceremony.
Court Ruling on Protest Ban
At a hearing on Thursday, the university’s legal team argued that the injunction was urgently needed to prevent disruptions during the graduation ceremony at Senate House this Saturday. However, Mr. Justice Fordham denied the five-year ban, citing concerns over the lack of time given for affected parties to respond.
Instead, the judge issued a narrow, temporary injunction, restricting protests at Senate House and Senate House Yard—the site of the upcoming graduation event.
Background of the Legal Battle
The university’s request followed a series of protests organised by “Cambridge for Palestine”, with encampments appearing at Senate House Yard in May and November 2024. Another protest took place at Greenwich House in November.
Despite concerns about disruptions, the court was informed that 10 graduation ceremonies between May and December 2024 had proceeded without incident. The university presented evidence of only two disrupted ceremonies and three prospective ones.
What’s Next?
With the interim injunction in place, Saturday’s graduation ceremony is expected to proceed without protest-related interruptions. Further hearings will determine whether additional legal measures are necessary in the future.
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