Australian students launch historic national referendum on Gaza divestment

Australian university students have conducted a nationwide referendum on Gaza, marking the largest coordinated student vote since the anti-apartheid campaigns of the late 20th century. The referendum, held across campuses, called for censuring the government's role in the Gaza conflict and urged universities to sever ties with Israeli weapons companies. This movement echoes historical student activism, drawing parallels to protests against the Vietnam War and South African apartheid. The vote comes amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese recently announcing plans to recognise the State of Palestine at the United Nations General Assembly in September.
The referendum reflects a growing student-led campaign for Palestinian solidarity that has persisted for nearly 100 consecutive weeks. It coincides with Australia's complex relationship with Israel, including indirect contributions to defence projects used by the Israeli military. As universities grapple with their partnerships in the defence sector, students are leveraging their collective voice to influence institutional policies and broader national discourse on the Gaza conflict.

Al Jazeera's Danielle Robertson reports from Sydney, Australia.

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