News
In the statement, released this Saturday, May 18, the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities expresses that “the recent situation experienced at the Central House of the University of Chile, where a demonstration resulted in acts of violence, underlines the need to maintain our commitment to respect and tolerance.”.
The CRUCH calls for "continued collaborative work in the defense of human rights, the promotion of dialogue and the building of a lasting peace.".
Through a public statement, the Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities (CRUCH) expressed solidarity with the University of Chile following the recent acts of violence that occurred this week at the Main Building, and emphasized its commitment to freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest; the promotion of peace and dialogue; and the protection of university communities against any act of violence.
In a statement released this Saturday, May 18, the CRUCH (Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities) highlights three fundamental values shared by its 30 member universities: freedom of expression, democracy, and peace. “These civic principles are essential for developing a university environment that fosters respectful dialogue and harmonious coexistence,” they affirm.
Regarding freedom of expression and the right to peaceful protest, the CRUCH (Council of Rectors of Chilean Universities) states that “these are pillars of a democratic and pluralistic society, and in our universities, they are essential for the free exchange of ideas and the advancement of knowledge.” Consequently, they add, “it is fundamental that all members of our communities can express their opinions and participate in peaceful activities without fear of reprisal.”.
Regarding democracy, they maintain that “in our institutions it is reflected in mutual respect and the harmonious coexistence of different ideas and perspectives,” and therefore, “the recent situation at the University of Chile's main building, where a demonstration turned violent, underscores the need to maintain our commitment to respect and tolerance.” The statement highlights the University of Chile's actions to continue the activities of the Ukrainian delegation, “guaranteeing a safe space to exercise freedom of expression,” according to the statement.
The statement goes on to say that “peace is an essential value that we must promote and protect in all our institutions.” Therefore, “we condemn all forms of violence and reaffirm our commitment to promoting a safe and respectful environment in all our universities,” the declaration continues, adding that “peaceful coexistence and the safety of all members of our communities are shared responsibilities that we assume with seriousness and determination.”.
Finally, the statement from the Council of Rectors “rejects all acts of violence that disrupt academic life and damage the fabric of our university communities” and calls on all universities to “continue working collaboratively in the defense of human rights, the promotion of dialogue, and the building of lasting peace. Only through cooperation and mutual respect can we ensure that our institutions remain spaces where academic freedom and university autonomy flourish.”.
Spanish 
English