UCD Professor Ben Tonra announced via Twitter that he has resigned from his role as Vice Principal Internationalization and Global Engagement in the College of Social Sciences and Law.
In his statement, Professor Tonra explained “Based on the statements and response of the University’s leadership to the invasion of Ukraine and the role of the Confucius Institute on campus, it is clear to me that I do not share the values underpinning UCD’s global engagement strategy”
UCD’s statement on Ukraine read “University College Dublin joins the Irish Government and wider society in its concern with the situation in Ukraine, and in particular with the violation of international law and the unnecessary and tragic human suffering and loss of life. We are offering support to students, staff, faculty and collaborators affected by the crisis and urge any affected member of our community to stay in touch”. Several Twitter users have responded critically, as UCD’s statement did not describe the situation as an “invasion”.
Professor Tonra has confirmed that he will continue with his teaching and research work as a professor in the School of Politics and International Relations, where he says “I am privileged and proud to serve”.
UCD has been contacted for comment.