Columbia University expels over 70 students for protest actions

In the United States, Columbia University has taken disciplinary action against more than 70 students following their involvement in pro-Palestinian protests that occurred several months ago, specifically in May 2024. The protests included the takeover of Butler Library during final exams and disruptions during an encampment held on Alumni Weekend. As a result of the protests, which according to the university affected hundreds of students attempting to study, the disciplinary measures were announced on July 21, 2025. Most of the disciplined students received punishments ranging from probation to two-year suspensions or expulsions. The disciplinary action occurs amidst ongoing negotiations between Columbia University and the Trump administration, which had previously withheld a significant amount of federal funding to the university due to claims of insufficient action against antisemitism on campus. In March 2024, the Trump administration accused Columbia University of failing to adequately address deep-rooted antisemitic sentiments and, as a consequence, froze approximately $400 million in federal grants and contracts. Columbia officials have since engaged with the administration to reach an agreement, needing to restore funding crucial for its academic programs. Columbia University's administration noted that the sanctions were determined by a judicial board panel comprising professors and administrators. The university claimed that the disciplinary process was updated to provide fair resolutions after the disruption events, which included the vandalism of university property and endangering public safety. The university's leadership emphasized the institution's commitment to maintaining respect and order within the academic environment as conditions for a thriving academic community. The reactions to the disciplinary actions have been mixed. While some community members praised the university for taking a firm stand against disruptions to academic activities, many students and activists criticized the severity of the punishments, arguing that they disregarded the motives behind students' protests which aimed to draw attention to significant humanitarian issues. Activist groups have contended that disciplinary actions could be viewed as a suppression of student advocacy, particularly given the timing of these measures during negotiations with the federal government concerning funding.