Columbia University Concedes to Trump Administration Demands on Campus Policies

Columbia University has agreed to implement significant policy changes in response to demands from the Trump administration in hopes of restoring $400 million in federal funding suspended over antisemitism concerns. The changes include a campus-wide ban on masks during protests, granting expanded arrest powers to campus police, and appointing a senior vice provost to oversee the contentious Department of Middle East, South Asian, and African Studies. Interim President Katrina Armstrong emphasized the university's commitment to ensuring a safe environment for all students while also addressing the need for free speech and ideological diversity. These reforms have sparked debate about the influence of conservative values within higher education and the balance between political discourse and academic freedom. Critics argue that the measures may undermine academic autonomy and are primarily focused on appeasing government demands rather than fostering genuine dialogue around sensitive issues. The administration's compliance comes amid heightened scrutiny of campus protests, particularly those related to Israel and Palestine.