UAM Students Condemn Violent Disruption of Felipe González Lecture

The Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) remains a site of tension following a violent disruption of a forum featuring former Spanish Prime Minister Felipe González and journalist Juan Luis Cebrián in January 2024. While university authorities have launched an investigation and students are actively condemning the violence, the incident underscores a broader pattern of political protest and clashes within Spanish universities. The events at UAM, involving approximately 150 individuals, have sparked debate about freedom of expression, the boundaries of protest, and the role of radical groups on campus.

Condemnation and Investigation at the UAM

The immediate aftermath of the January 4th, 2024 incident saw widespread condemnation from students who do not align with the tactics employed by the protesters. More than a thousand signatures have been collected in support of free expression and against the violence that unfolded during the “Civil Society and Global Change” forum held at the Law Faculty. Students involved in gathering these signatures emphasize that the university should be a space for open dialogue, free from intimidation and physical harm. The university’s dean has initiated a formal investigation, with the possibility of expulsions for those identified as responsible for the disruption.

The protest itself involved masked individuals, some reportedly carrying imagery associated with ETA members killed by the GAL (Grupos Antiterroristas de Liberación), a now-disbanded anti-ETA paramilitary group. A firecracker was detonated, causing damage to lighting fixtures, and reports surfaced of attendees being injured, including a 70-year-old teacher allegedly assaulted. One student even reported seeing a large kitchen knife, adding to the sense of danger and escalation.

Radical Groups and Claims of Responsibility

Several groups have been implicated in the organization and execution of the protest. The Libertarian Student Federation (FEL), described as an anarchist organization, claimed responsibility via a message posted on Twitter, stating that “messing with two Capos of the Regime has consequences.” Izquierda Castellana, a political branch associated with antifascism, and its youth wing, Yesca, are also under scrutiny. Reports suggest the protest was coordinated through social media platforms and WhatsApp groups, with the Faculty of Psychology serving as a gathering point for participants.

Habeas Corpus, an association self-described as antifascist and anticapitalist, officially registered with the university, has also come under attention. While members of Habeas Corpus deny direct involvement in organizing the disruption, they were identified by fellow students as being among those present during the protest. Some protesters attempted to deflect blame, alleging that security personnel accompanying González were responsible for placing the kitchen knife found at the scene. This claim remains unverified.

Historical Context: ‘Escraches’ and Political Protest in Spain

The incident at UAM falls within a historical context of “escraches” – public demonstrations intended to shame or confront individuals perceived as having committed wrongdoing. These protests, while not new to Spanish political life, have become increasingly common in recent years, often targeting politicians, business leaders, and other public figures. The term itself originates from the practice of publicly shaming individuals in medieval Spain.

A similar incident occurred in October 2016, when dozens of students prevented Felipe González from entering the UAM, shouting slogans and displaying banners critical of his past actions and alleged involvement in controversial events like the “dirty war” against ETA. That protest, like the 2024 disruption, led to the suspension of the planned event and sparked debate about the limits of free speech and the right to protest. The 2016 protest also saw students displaying banners referencing the Panama Papers and accusations of state terrorism.

The Role of University Spaces in Political Mobilization

Spanish universities have long been centers of political activism and debate. The transition to democracy following the death of Francisco Franco in 1975 saw universities become key spaces for the expression of diverse political viewpoints. But, the increasing radicalization of some student groups and the use of violent tactics raise concerns about the safety and security of university campuses. The UAM incident highlights the challenge of balancing freedom of expression with the need to maintain a safe and orderly learning environment.

The fact that the UAM allows for a wide range of political expression – including protests, strikes, and demonstrations – underscores the university’s commitment to academic freedom. However, as one student organizer noted, this freedom should not extend to violence or intimidation. The university’s investigation aims to determine whether the actions of the protesters crossed the line and violated the institution’s code of conduct.

What Happens Next: Disciplinary Action and Potential Legal Consequences

The immediate next step is the completion of the UAM’s internal investigation. The dean, Yolanda Valdeolivares, has stated that the university is working to identify all those responsible for the disruption, both individually and as members of any affiliated organizations. If identified, students could face disciplinary action, including expulsion.

Beyond the university’s internal proceedings, there is the potential for legal consequences. Depending on the severity of the injuries sustained by attendees and the extent of the property damage, prosecutors could pursue criminal charges against those involved. The Spanish legal system allows for prosecution of offenses such as assault, vandalism, and public disorder.

The incident also raises questions about the role of social media in facilitating and coordinating protests. Authorities may investigate the use of WhatsApp groups and other online platforms to determine the extent of the planning and organization that went into the disruption. This could lead to further investigations and potential legal action against individuals involved in the online coordination of the protest.

The UAM’s response to this incident will likely set a precedent for how similar protests are handled in the future. Other Spanish universities will be closely watching the outcome of the investigation and any subsequent disciplinary or legal proceedings. The balance between protecting freedom of expression and ensuring a safe and secure learning environment remains a critical challenge for universities across Spain.