The University and College Union Glasgow (UCUG) is deeply disappointed and outraged by the decision of the University of Glasgow not to divest from the arms industry. The ongoing Israeli genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza is a warning of what investment in the arms industry entails.

The university acknowledges their decision was taken in spite of the fact that a clear majority of staff and students responding to a consultation exercise backed divestment from arms. In disregarding the views of thousands of staff and students, as well as of their representative organisations, University Court makes a mockery of democratic process at the University as well as undermining its commitment to socially responsible investment.

Our position remains as ever unchanged: full divestment from the arms industry. We stand in solidarity with staff and students who have campaigned on this issue and share the anger expressed by many at the university’s decision. We will continue to engage our members and work alongside student groups, the Student’s Representative Council, our sister campus unions and the Rector of the university, Dr Ghassan Abu-Sittah.