Harvard faces federal demands to retain $9 billion in funding

• Harvard must meet new US administration requirements to continue receiving nearly $9 (CAD 13) billion in federal grants and contracts.
• The requirements involve combating violence and harassment on anti-Semitic grounds, as well as enacting structural reforms, including changes in university policies.

President Donald Trump's administration has issued a series of requirements for Harvard to meet in order to retain nearly $9 (CAD 13) billion in federal grants.

A letter from three federal agencies includes demands to combat violence and harassment on anti-Semitic grounds. One requirement is the prohibition of wearing masks during protests, to facilitate the identification of leaders of demonstrations critical of Israel.

Harvard must conduct an analysis of academic departments to increase the diversity of perspectives. Authorities in Washington emphasize that the university is not adequately protecting students and faculty from anti-Semitism.

Reforms in admission, employment, and promotion policies are also required, which should be based solely on achievements and skills rather than origin or religion.

Harvard faces a comprehensive review to determine whether it qualifies for continued federal funding. While some alumni call on the university to oppose the central administration, others support its actions, comparing them to past steps taken against racial segregation in schools.

Similar actions by the Trump administration could also affect other prestigious universities, such as Brown University. Republicans in Congress express concerns about the growing influence of China in American educational institutions.

Harvard Provost Alan Garber has committed to addressing accusations of anti-Semitism and presenting the findings of the problem analysis.