On May 3, 2024, a peace rally for Gaza was organized in Paris in front of the Pantheon by various organizations. Bertrand Badie, a political scientist and expert in international relations who taught at Sciences Po for over fifty years, believes that repression is not the right approach when dealing with students who identify with international causes. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing their engagement rather than labeling them as extremists or radicals. Badie attended a debate titled “Gaza and Our World” at Sciences Po on April 30, where he was pleasantly surprised by the students’ calm and respectful demeanor.
During the debate, Badie highlighted the changing nature of international conflicts, emphasizing that the conflict between a state and non-state actors challenges traditional theories of war. He drew parallels between current conflicts involving organizations like Palestinian groups and past struggles for decolonization, noting the escalation of violence and terrorism as a response to domination and humiliation. Badie referenced the Algerian War, pointing out the cycle of violence and repression that ultimately strengthened the resistance movement. He suggested that states struggle to adapt to these new forms of conflict, with social dynamics on university campuses playing a role in shaping foreign policy.
Badie’s observations at the debate reflect a broader trend of social engagement with international issues, which can influence state policies. He notes that the phenomenon seen at Sciences Po is not isolated, but rather part of a larger movement where social groups exert pressure on foreign policies, as seen historically with the Vietnam War and currently with challenges faced by President Biden. By engaging with students who are passionate about global causes, Badie believes that dialogue and understanding are key to addressing complex international conflicts and preventing further escalation.
The mobilization of students at Sciences Po around the Palestinian cause is seen as an expression of social awareness and a desire to engage with complex international issues. While some may view these actions as radical or extreme, Badie argues that it is important to recognize the genuine commitment and concern underlying such activism. He believes that fostering dialogue and creating spaces for open discussion can help channel this energy into constructive avenues for change, rather than resorting to repression or censorship.
By encouraging students to engage with international conflicts and express their opinions in a peaceful and respectful manner, Badie hopes to foster a culture of dialogue and understanding. He sees opportunities for learning and growth in the exchanges that take place on university campuses, where diverse perspectives and experiences can enrich the conversation. Ultimately, he advocates for a more inclusive and nuanced approach to addressing global challenges, one that values the voices of all stakeholders and seeks to build bridges rather than walls.
