UCL Secures Court Order to Evict Pro-Gaza Protesters from Campus

University College London (UCL) has successfully obtained a court order to reclaim part of its campus that has been occupied by pro-Gaza protesters since May. The university initiated legal proceedings against "persons unknown" for what it described as an "unauthorised occupational encampment" on its Gower Street site, asserting that the activists were trespassing on private property. The High Court granted a summary possession order, ruling in favor of UCL without the need for a full trial. In its arguments, UCL highlighted the financial burden of managing the protest, having spent over £200,000 on security measures. Katharine Holland KC, representing the university, emphasized the need to protect UCL's rights to its land and to minimize disruptions to university activities. The court was informed of "escalating incidents" linked to the encampment, raising concerns about the university's ability to host key events, including the upcoming student "welcome week." Judge Francesca Kaye deemed UCL's decision-making process appropriate, affirming that the order to regain possession of the campus was compatible with the protesters' human rights. In response, the protest group UCL Stand for Justice expressed disappointment, stating that the university should engage in open dialogue rather than "smearing" their actions. They reiterated their willingness to negotiate respectfully with UCL. A spokesperson for UCL reaffirmed the institution's commitment to freedom of speech and protest but stressed the necessity of regaining full access to the campus to facilitate essential university activities, particularly for incoming students.