BREAKING: Francesca Albanese, the controversial UN special rapporteur on Palestinian territories, has been officially removed as an “affiliated scholar” from Georgetown University in the United States. This move follows a campaign by UN Watch, an independent organization that monitors the UN, which accused her of supporting terrorism and antisemitism.
Earlier today, UN Watch released evidence showing that Albanese’s name had been removed from the university’s website, where she previously occupied a prominent position on the “Other Affiliated Scholars” page of the Institute for the Study of International Migration. Both her profile and bio have now vanished, signaling a significant shift in the university’s stance.
The decision comes in the wake of Albanese’s controversial remarks made during an event in Sicily on August 8, 2025, where she downplayed Hamas’s violent image, stating, “Hamas is a political force that won the 2005 elections—whether we like it or not.” This statement has sparked outrage and intensified scrutiny of her views, particularly after her past fundraising activities in July 2014, where she referenced America being “subjugated by the Jewish lobby.” Although she later apologized for this remark, the damage to her reputation has lingered.
Hillel Neuer, Executive Director of UN Watch, expressed approval of the university’s decision, stating, “Academic institutions have a responsibility to uphold basic standards of integrity and human dignity.” He added that removing individuals who promote hatred and justify terrorism is crucial for restoring these standards within academic circles.
Although UN Watch claims credit for her removal, it coincides with the US sanctions imposed on Albanese in July, making her the first UN official to face such actions. Marco Rubio, Secretary of State, condemned her actions, labeling her unfit for her role due to her “unabashed antisemitism” and support for terrorism. He emphasized that the United States will not tolerate such behavior from officials representing the UN.
In recent interviews, Albanese highlighted the personal impact of these sanctions, stating, “It creates a chilling effect around you, because anyone who engages with a US-sanctioned person risks being arrested.” She has vehemently denied allegations of antisemitism, claiming that such accusations have been “weaponised” against her.
As this situation unfolds, UN Watch urges the UN to follow Georgetown’s example and remove Albanese from her position entirely. “There ought to be no place in the human rights system for officials who promote hatred and excuse terrorism,” Neuer concluded.
Georgetown University and Francesca Albanese have been contacted for comment. The implications of this removal extend beyond academia, raising questions about the standards of conduct for UN officials and the responsibilities of educational institutions in promoting integrity.
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