The Global Student Forum strongly condemns the detention and impending deportation of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian refugee, Columbia University graduate, and longtime advocate for education rights. Mahmoud has dedicated his life to fighting for access to education for marginalized and displaced communities, including his work as a Global Partnership for Education (GPE) Youth Leader. His arbitrary detention by U.S. authorities represents a grave violation of fundamental freedoms, including the right to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and due process.
As a student activist and human rights advocate, Mahmoud has been an outspoken defender of refugee education, social justice, and equality. His work with organizations like Jusoor and the British Embassy in Beirut has empowered countless students and demonstrated his deep commitment to education as a tool for rebuilding communities affected by war and displacement.
The U.S. government's move to criminalize student activism, particularly in response to pro-Palestinian protests, sets a dangerous precedent. If allowed to stand, it threatens not only Mahmoud’s future but also the right of students everywhere to engage in political advocacy without fear of persecution. Targeting students based on their political speech is an attack on academic freedom and a direct violation of international human rights norms.
GSF calls on the U.S. government to:
- Immediately release Mahmoud Khalil from detention and drop all politically motivated deportation proceedings against him.
- Ensure the protection of students' right to protest without fear of state retaliation.
- Uphold its commitment to fundamental freedoms, including the First Amendment, which guarantees freedom of speech, assembly, and association.
- End the repression of student activists and prevent the use of immigration laws as a tool to silence political dissent.
We stand in solidarity with Mahmoud and all students who face persecution for exercising their right to speak out against injustice. The Global Student Forum urges student organizations, human rights defenders, and civil society to amplify this case and demand justice. The right to education and activism are not privileges—they are fundamental human rights.
