Extremism a ‘serious’ problem on campus
There is “serious” evidence that Islamist extremists are using British universities to spread their message, the higher education minister has warned.
Bill Rammell said universities must be more vigilant about identifying extremism on campus, and has today published new guidance on how to do this.
It includes a definition of violent extremism in the name of Islam and makes clear the difference between this and adherence to the religion.
Staff are given advice on what to do if they suspect the circulation of radical literature, or if they fear extremist speakers are on campus.
“The guidance provides a recognition – that I believe must be faced squarely – that violent extremism in the name of Islam is a real, credible and sustained threat to the UK,” Mr Rammell said.
“And that there is evidence of serious, but not widespread Islamist extremist activity in higher education authorities.”
He insisted the guidance was “not about targeting one particular community”, but promoting safety, and protecting students from bullying and harassment by extremist groups attempting to recruit members.
The measures were welcomed by intelligence expert professor Anthony Glees, who told Today: “Historically over the past ten years there’s evidence that 21 British universities have a direct link with extremism that has led to terrorism.”
However, this view was roundly rejected by the Federation of Student Islamic Societies (FoSIS), which told politics.co.uk there was “absolutely no credible evidence” of such extremism and warned that Muslims must not be targeted as a result of today’s guidance.
Elsewhere, the National Union of Students (NUS) praised the “moderate tone” of the guidance, saying it had avoided negative stereotypes of Muslim students and also any requirement for teachers to inform on their students.
But national president Gemma Tumelty said it failed to provide any practical ways to improve on-campus relations and in focusing on Islamist extremism, had the potential to create an anti-Muslim backlash.
Universities UK, which represents many of Britain’s higher education institutions, said the guidance provided “practical and useful information” for staff and students, but it too raised concerns about focusing solely on Islam.
A spokesman said: “Universities are some of the most diverse communities in the UK, and work hard to ensure community cohesion on campus across all faiths and racial groups.”
