Harvard Announces Leadership Changes at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies: What It Means for the Future

On March 28, 2025, Harvard’s interim dean of social sciences, David M. Cutler, made significant changes at the Center for Middle Eastern Studies (CMES). He dismissed both the director, Cemal Kafadar, and the associate director, Rosie Bsheer. This move has sparked discussions, particularly regarding the center’s content on Israel and Palestine.

Critics have accused CMES of being one-sided, alleging that its programs show antisemitic tendencies and overlook Israeli viewpoints. Under pressure from various groups, including the alumni advocacy group Harvard Jewish Alumni Alliance, the center has faced increasing scrutiny. A notable report criticized CMES for labeling Israel as the “last remaining colonial settler power,” and highlighted concerns over the imbalance in addressing Israel-Palestine issues compared to other global topics.

Recently, Harvard has taken steps to distance itself from these controversies. For instance, the Harvard School of Public Health suspended its partnership with Birzeit University in the West Bank, yielding to calls for a reassessment of its affiliations.

The dismissal of Kafadar and Bsheer reflects a larger trend in academia. Universities across the country, under pressure from entities like the Trump administration, are re-evaluating their Middle Eastern studies programs. Columbia University, for example, recently changed its program under federal funding scrutiny.

As Cutler searches for new leadership, he emphasizes the need for both intellectual vision and strong administrative skill. This situation reflects a broader issue many universities face: balancing academic freedom and community standards.

Kafadar will remain at Harvard in a faculty role, while Keshavjee, who has stepped in as interim director, will continue his leadership through the end of the semester. Harvard’s response to these challenges could set a precedent for how academic institutions navigate political sensitivities in their programming.

Public reactions on social media show strong opinions about these changes, with some praising the university’s actions while others view them as a troubling sign of academic censorship. The conversation continues as the university evaluates its approach to Middle Eastern studies and strives for a balance that represents diverse perspectives.

For more context, you can explore how other universities are handling similar pressures on their Middle Eastern studies programs, like Columbia’s adjustments following funding cuts from the federal government. This ongoing development highlights the complex interplay between education, politics, and societal values.



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