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Berlin University Stands by Controversial Activist Group Despite Costly Protests

A radical activist group keeps its university privileges—even after two destructive protests. Why won’t Berlin cut ties with *Decolonise HU Berlin*?

In this picture, we see the poster containing the college of the cartoons. We see some text written...
In this picture, we see the poster containing the college of the cartoons. We see some text written on this poster.

Berlin University Stands by Controversial Activist Group Despite Costly Protests

Humboldt University of Berlin has persisted in providing facilities to the activist group Decolonise HU Berlin, despite its involvement in violent campus occupations. The decision follows repeated incidents of property damage linked to the group, including two high-cost occupations in 2024 and 2025.

In May 2024, members of Decolonise HU Berlin occupied the Institute of Social Sciences, causing an estimated €150,000 in damages. Less than a year later, in April 2025, the group targeted the Emil Fischer Lecture Hall, resulting in further destruction valued at around €100,000.

The university’s policy allows Decolonise HU Berlin to keep using its facilities as long as requests come through the official student body. While the group remains active on campus, its past actions have led to significant financial losses for the institution. No changes to the booking process have been announced.

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