In a series of coordinated demonstrations, Extinction Rebellion (XR) Cambridge has taken to the streets, targeting institutions ranging from major banks to prestigious universities, all while drawing attention to the ongoing Gaza-Israel conflict.
On March 15, 2025, a coalition of protest groups, including XR Cambridge, Cambridge Palestine Solidarity Campaign, and Cambridge Stop the War, staged a peaceful sit-in at Barclays on St Andrew’s Street. Their demand: an immediate end to the bank’s investments in fossil fuels and its alleged financing of weapons used by Israel against Palestinians in Gaza. Activists informed staff and customers about Barclays’ reported $26 billion support for major oil entities from 2016 to 2022, urging patrons to consider switching to more ethical banks.
University Grounds Become Protest Stages
The University of Cambridge has not been spared from XR’s fervour. Protesters have occupied university buildings, demanding an end to fossil fuel investments and highlighting the institution’s alleged ties to companies supplying arms to Israel. These actions have sparked debates about the balance between free speech and institutional operations, especially as the university sought, but failed to secure, a five-year injunction against such protests.
The recent escalation in Gaza has intensified XR’s protests. Demonstrations have been held across the UK, with activists drawing parallels between environmental destruction and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In Cambridge, protesters have called for the university to divest from companies allegedly supplying arms to Israel, highlighting the interconnectedness of global struggles for justice.
These actions are part of a nationwide surge in protests addressing both environmental issues and international conflicts. XR’s strategy of targeting financial institutions, educational establishments, and defence companies reflects a comprehensive approach to activism, aiming to address systemic issues from multiple angles.
Public and Institutional Reactions
The protests have elicited mixed reactions. While some commend the activists for highlighting critical issues, others express concern over disruptions and the potential impact on daily operations. Institutions like the University of Cambridge are now grappling with how to address these protests while maintaining their commitments to free speech and operational continuity.
As XR Cambridge continues its campaign, the city remains a focal point for discussions on environmental responsibility, institutional ethics, and global solidarity movements. The outcomes of these protests may well influence how other cities and institutions across the UK respond to similar challenges in the future.
