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Non-renewal of Professor Joseph Daher’s contract in Lausanne

Dismissal / FiringLegal procedures: No

DATE

February 1, 2025

LOCATION

Lausanne (Switzerland)

TARGETED PERSON/INSTITUTION

Joseph Daher

DOMAIN/FIELD

Research, University

RESPONSIBLE FOR BAN

Administration of Lausanne University

Visiting professor Joseph Daher’s contract at the University of Lausanne was not renewed by the administration as of January 30, 2025. The official reason given was that he had lent his access badge to a student during a pro-Palestinian campus occupation.

The SSP union denounced the decision as a political move in disguise. More than 500 researchers signed a petition in support, while the Faculty Council unanimously adopted a resolution criticizing the proceedings against the professor.

On April 24, the Unil administration sent a letter to professor Joseph Daher's lawyer confirming his firing.

On August 21, was held at the Tribunal des prud'hommes de l'administration cantonale (TRIPAC), an alleged "conciliation" audience specifically regarding the firing procedure, despite the fact that the university claims to not have a contractual relationship with Joseph Daher.

This measure, that takes place 15 months after the "non-reconduction" of his contract is interpreted by the (ex) professor and the SSP as a preventive measure before a new audience, that will render its decision.

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