Latest News

Recent news from the Society

Academic Freedom | Letter to European Research Council Regarding Dr Harry Pettit

The BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom has written to the European Research Council (ERC) to express our deep concern regarding the complaints levelled against Dr Harry Pettit, and public suggestions by Members of the European Parliament that an ERC...

The British Journal of Middle Eastern Studies (BJMES) is Seeking a New Editor

BRISMES is seeking to appoint a new Editor, to lead the journal after the stepping down of long-serving editor Professor Lloyd Ridgeon.

Statement by BRISMES Council on the US-Israeli Aggression on Iran and Bombing of Lebanon

The British Society for Middle Eastern Studies Council of Trustees expresses deep concern at the ongoing escalation of violence across the Middle East and the grave human consequences that have followed. We condemn the current United States–Israel military...

Joint appeal for Dr Abduljalil Al-Singace on 15th anniversary of his arrest

On the 15th anniversary of Dr Abduljalil Al-Singace's arrest in Bahrain, the BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom has joined 18 NGOs to show our solidarity with Dr Al-Singace and to continue to call on the Bahraini authorities to release him and other...

Call for Nominations for BRISMES Secretary and BRISMES Treasurer (2026-2029)

Since 2019, BRISMES has undertaken an extensive process of reform, becoming more diverse and more democratic. The Society is currently seeking nominations from members for the positions of BRISMES Secretary and BRISMES Treasurer to help continue the work...

Between a Rock and a Hard Place: A Roundtable on War, Repression, Iran and International Solidarity

After the massacre of thousands of protesters in Iran by the regime, military intervention by the US and Israel and war, we want to make space for a democratic and frank discussion about international solidarity.

Letter to West Yorkshire Police Regarding Arrest for Use of the Phrase “Globalise the Intifada”

The Council and Committee on Academic Freedom of BRISMES have written to West Yorkshire Police to express our serious concern regarding the recent arrest of a Palestine solidarity protester following a protest in Leeds on the 27th December 2025.

Academic Freedom | Letter to The Open University Regarding Use of the Term 'Ancient Palestine'

The BRISMES Committee on Academic Freedom has written to the Open University to express our profound concern about the university’s response to a letter from the UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) regarding the use of the term ‘ancient Palestine.’ Based...