University of Glasgow Court votes to continue arms industry investment

This afternoon the University of Glasgow’s Court voted to continue its investment in the arms industry.

The University stated that the Court “accepted the advice of senior managers that the University should not require fund managers to disinvest, firstly because this could be interpreted as a signal that the University was opposed to the existence of the UK defence sector and secondly in recognition of the University’s ongoing research relationships with a range of firms active in this area. At the same time, [the] Court strongly endorsed the University’s humanitarian efforts to support those affected by conflict, particularly the ongoing wars in the Middle East and Ukraine.”

Following the University’s decision, the SRC released a statement expressing its “profound disappointment and outrage” at the outcome. The SRC has maintained a pro-disinvestment stance for over a decade.

Pablo Morán Ruiz, SRC President stated: “The SRC urges the University to reverse this decision and commit to divesting from the arms industry immediately. We, the SRC, call on the University leadership to engage in meaningful dialogue with the student body to chart a more responsible path forward.

The SRC will continue to advocate for ethical investment policies and take action to hold the University accountable. We stand united with students, staff, and community members who believe that universities should be leaders in advancing peace and justice—not enablers of global violence.

We remain committed to representing your views and advocating for a university that prioritises ethical and socially responsible investment.”

This follows calls from GAAF and other groups for the University to divest from arms companies, including BAE Systems. Earlier today, protesters briefly occupied the McMillan Reading Room, shouting from the upper balcony and displaying banners. They later moved to the Quad where they continued their demonstration by chanting and holding banners near the location of the ongoing Court meeting. Eyewitnesses reported an attempt by a member of the group to enter the University’s office buildings within the Quad; however, the University’s security team stated that they had already secured the premises.

In June, the University Court decided to postpone its decision on divestment, but launched a consultation survey in October as part of ongoing discussions regarding its Socially Responsible Investment Policy. The policy covers the management of the University’s endowment fund and outlines the responsibilities of external fund managers overseeing its investments. However, GAAF withdrew from negotiations with the University after the draft SRI policy was published, claiming that the process was not conducted “in good faith”.