Damage caused by lecture hall occupation in 2025 is significantly more expensive than expected

The renovation costs following the destruction of a lecture hall at the Humboldt University (HU) in 2025 by pro-Palestinian activists are significantly higher than previously assumed. They amount to around 250,000 euros, according to an answer to a written question from Green MP Andreas Otto.

Initial estimates were of 60,000 to 100,000 euros in property damage. The “Tagesspiegel” had previously reported.

The listed Emil Fischer Hall was occupied and literally devastated on April 16, 2025. Torn-out wooden benches were piled up in the lecture hall and stairwell. Windows, walls and wooden paneling were daubed - including with the Hamas triangle and lettering such as “Free Gaza” or “Zionists are fascists”.

According to the HU, 170,000 euros had to be invested in the refurbishment and repair of the chairs as well as the partial renewal of the floor anchoring. According to the HU, no irreparable damage was caused to the historical substance.

Investigations against 88 acquaintances by name

After occupying the lecture hall, the police initiated 100 criminal investigations. According to the answer to the written question, the investigation currently targets 88 named defendants. So far, the Berlin police have sent 95 individual cases to the public prosecutor's office. The investigations are therefore ongoing.