Activist group vandalises Glasgow Uni building in protest against arms investments
Fire extinguishers were used to spray the James McCune Smith Learning Hub with red paint
An activist group has vandalised a University of Glasgow building in protest against arms investments.
The James McCune Smith Learning Hub (JMS) at the University of Glasgow was spray painted on Thursday 6th February, with red paint defacing its exterior.
The incident occurred at approximately 9:50am and is believed to have been carried out by two individuals alleged to be students of the university.
Police responded promptly, with two cars and a van arriving at the scene at 10:22am.
The activist group, Youth Demand, claimed responsibility for the act through an Instagram post, urging supporters to “paint Glasgow University red.”
The group criticised the university for its alleged financial ties to arms companies, which they claim amount to an estimated £6.8 million in direct investments.
In a press statement, one activist spoke about her involvement, saying: “I was forced into action today because Glasgow University has blatantly ignored the will of the majority of its students and staff, and insisted on continuing to invest in Israeli linked arms research… As students we demand an immediate trade embargo including all arms.”
This event is the latest in a series of protests against the University of Glasgow’s investment policies. In November 2024, the University Court discussed a revised draft of its Socially Responsible Investment Policy. Despite a consultation indicating that a clear majority of staff fund managers supported divestment from the defence sector, the Court decided not to require fund managers to disinvest, citing concerns about signalling opposition to the UK defence sector and acknowledging ongoing research with firms in this area.
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The Students’ Representative Council (SRC) strongly condemned the decision, stating: “[It] represents a stark disregard for ethical investment principles and undermines the University’s stated commitment to social responsibility and global justice.”
Students have expressed mixed reactions to today’s incident.
Emily Thompson, a third year politics student, told the The Glasgow Tab: “While I don’t condone vandalism, it’s frustrating that our voices are being ignored. Peaceful protests haven’t led to change.”
Conversely, Michael Patel, a postgraduate engineering student, told The Glasgow Tab: “Damaging university property isn’t the answer. We need to find constructive ways to engage with the administration.”
The University of Glasgow has previously faced criticism for its investments. In October 2024, it became the first university in Europe to announce plans to divest from fossil fuels over a 10-year period. However, its continued investments in the arms industry have remained a contentious issue on campus.
As the debate over ethical investments persists, today’s events highlight the escalating tensions between the university administration and its student body.
A Glasgow University spokesperson said: “This incident is now an ongoing police matter and as a result we cannot comment on it specifically.
“The University of Glasgow upholds the right to freedom of expression, including the right of staff and students to engage in peaceful demonstrations. However, we do not tolerate activities which interfere with the rights of others to go about their business in peace.”
“As an institution we stand against hate or harassment of any kind. We regularly communicate with all our staff and students about the need for tolerance towards each other, and we reiterate this call for all members of our community to be respectful at all times.”
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 10am on Thursday, 6 February, 2025, we were called to a report of vandalism at a premises in the Gilmorehill area of Glasgow.
“Officers attended and two women, aged 22 and 24, were arrested in connection. Enquiries are ongoing.”
Featured image via X
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