The European Jewish Association has formally demanded that the rector and board of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel address what it calls a flagrant act of antisemitism and illegal discrimination, arguing the decision violates Belgian law and constitutional articles 10 and 11, as well as the 2007 anti-discrimination statute.

The university says the decision was made for neutrality and security reasons, a stance it stands by in its official statement.

The VUB reportedly declined to host a Hanukkah event for around 200 members of Belgium’s Jewish community, citing neutrality and security concerns.

Nora Bussigny and Rabbi Menachem Margolin condemn the decision, calling it morally and institutionally disgraceful and alleging antisemitism masquerading as neutrality or security.

Context includes ongoing critiques of university responses to antisemitism in Belgium and related incidents at other institutions.

The current incident has sparked comparisons with experiences at other Belgian universities and heightened concerns about the treatment of Jewish students and events on campus.

The EJA is seeking an official apology and a written commitment that such refusals will not recur; if there is no response by November 15, 2025, legal action will proceed in Belgian courts.