King’s College London ceases ‘controversial’ investments in arms following Palestine protests

Following months of student protests against King’s College London’s investment policy in arms companies, the university have finally agreed to no longer engage with companies involved in the manufacturing of arms.

On Instagram, current vice-president of KCLSU Hassan Ali said: “We have reached an agreement with King’s College London to revise their investment policy in arms companies in light of the genocide in Palestine”

The agreement was reportedly finalised on Monday 29th of July, following negotiations between finance executives at the university, and vice president Ali. The weapons clause will prevent King’s from investing in companies that supply the Israeli Defensive Forces that are currently operating in Palestine. The clause specifies these weapons to be:

“Cluster bombs, land mines, depleted uranium weapons, and other armaments.” The weapons clause is expected to be ratified by university officials this October.

Ali described this clause as “only the beginning (…) towards comprehensive and full divestment”, calling for students to “remain firm in (their) opposition to genocide and apartheid in Palestine.”

The revocation of KCLSU representative positions including those of Hassan Ali’s colleagues Aadaf Abbas Chema and Alizeh Abrar in November 2023, fueled the pro-Palestine demonstrations. According to controversy, the suspension of the student representatives following their pro-Palestinian statements contributed to an atmosphere of further animosity towards the university.

Reportedly the University of York and Queen’s University Belfast are also revising their investments policies following numerous pro-Palestine student protests.  These protests include walkouts, sit-ins and encampments across multiple KCL campuses.

Considerations of the clause at the university began in April, led by pro-Palestinian electives. The university’s arms investment has previously been criticised by electives since November. Vice president Ali wrote on Instagram in November 2023:

“The current tight-lipped attitude on Palestine (…) is in contrast to the Union’s own stance on issues such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict.” via Instagram post in November 2023.

The “controversial weapons” clause is expected to influence the university’s social environment and framework due to the efforts of King’s students, staff and alumni.

Featured images via @kclpalestineaction on Instagram

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