This report presents an up-to-date overview, as of the first half of 2026, of the impact of academic boycott initiatives on Israel, combining an analysis of pro- and anti-Israel activities in the international academic arena with an assessment of the performance of Israeli academia. Since October 2023, BDS pressures have intensified, including protests, boycott initiatives, and a rise in reported antisemitic incidents on campuses. The data indicate a peak in protest activity in the United States during 2024, followed by a gradual decline, alongside a sharp increase in reported antisemitic incidents and a subsequent partial moderation. At the same time, there are signs of the on-going institutionalization of boycott initiatives in academic institutions across Europe and other Western countries.
In parallel, performance indicators of Israeli academia point to relative stability. The volume of ERC grants, the number of scientific publications, and the percentage of international collaborations show minor fluctuations but no clear evidence of significant decline, despite wartime disruptions such as military reserve duty and logistical constraints. Nevertheless, some gaps are evident in growth rates and collaboration intensity.
Overall, the findings reflect a complex reality: an increase in anti-Israel activity and hostile expressions on the one hand, alongside the continued resilience and global integration of Israeli academia on the other. The report highlights the importance of systematic, data-driven monitoring to support informed and proactive policy responses.
