The administration of United States President Donald Trump has initiated a new investigation into Harvard University’s exchange program, which allows foreign scholars to visit the elite school. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the probe, citing concerns about national security and the need to ensure that the program does not run contrary to US interests.
According to Rubio, “The American people have the right to expect their universities to uphold national security, comply with the law, and provide safe environments for all students.” The investigation will examine whether Harvard’s exchange visitor program complies with all regulations and does not undermine US foreign policy objectives or compromise national security interests.
The Trump administration has been critical of Harvard University, particularly with regards to its handling of pro-Palestinian protests on campus. Rubio has drawn on the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1952, a Cold War-era law, to expel foreign students involved in such protests. Critics argue that this approach violates the constitutional right to free speech and protest.
The investigation could have significant consequences for Harvard University, including the potential loss of its eligibility as a sponsor of exchange visitors. Rubio warned that “to maintain their privilege to sponsor exchange visitors, sponsors must comply with all regulations, including conducting their programs in a manner that does not undermine the foreign policy objectives or compromise the national security interests of the United States.”
Harvard University has faced previous scrutiny from the Trump administration, including the stripping of federal contracts, research funding, and grants. The university has challenged these decisions in court, and a federal court in Boston began hearing a legal challenge against the decision this week.
The investigation into Harvard’s exchange program is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to exert pressure on universities to comply with its policies. Critics argue that this approach undermines academic freedom and the ability of universities to host international students and scholars.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Harvard University will respond and what the potential consequences will be for the university and its students.