**Universities Enforce Stricter Protest Rules, Decrease in Campus Demonstrations Noted**

This semester, colleges and universities across the United States have drastically tightened their regulations on protests and demonstrations, leading to a significant decline in such activities. This shift follows the disruptive events of last spring's pro-Palestinian demonstrations and encampments. Data from the Nonviolent Action Lab at Harvard University's Ash Center reveals a decrease from nearly 3,000 protest events last semester to just under 950 this semester. Furthermore, The New York Times reports that only about 50 individuals have been arrested at campus protests so far this school year, compared to over 3,000 last semester.

At many institutions, administrators have strictly enforced new rules introduced in the wake of the previous unrest. These measures have led to situations that seem unexpected, especially at universities traditionally known for their vibrant history of student activism. For instance, Harvard University imposed a temporary ban on dozens of students and faculty members from its libraries after participation in silent "study-ins" protesting the war in Gaza. This disciplinary action starkly contrasts with a similar protest in December 2023, which did not result in any penalties.

Other universities have implemented similarly stringent policies. At Indiana University Bloomington, both students and faculty members who attended candlelight vigils were referred for discipline under a new rule against expressive activities after 11 p.m. Meanwhile, at the University of Pennsylvania, attendees of a vigil were told to vacate the premises because they had not reserved the space in line with newly enforced regulations, with campus police officers standing by with zip ties.

An illustrative case is Montclair State University in New Jersey, where small weekly demonstrations have seen a heavy police presence. At these gatherings, protesters hold placards featuring photos of children killed in Gaza with the message "We mourn," yet law enforcement officers frequently outnumber the demonstrators.

These examples highlight a broader trend within higher education institutions to curb protests through the implementation and strict enforcement of new regulations, a move that marks a significant departure from previous approaches to campus activism.