It鈥檚 important that our students have the right to express views and ideas freely, without fear of interference or persecution. The University allows a wide range of views, even when they are unpopular, controversial or provocative. Respectful debate can strengthen our community, and discussion of issues helps us challenge discrimination and fight intolerance.
Code of Practice for Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom and Regulation 18
The University has a legal duty to protect students鈥� right to free speech and this is covered by the Code of Practice for Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom and Regulation 18. They also cover University staff and visiting speakers.
There are specific considerations when events are held on University premises, or away from the University if held under the brand of the University or Students鈥� Union, or with the University鈥檚 protection, support or backing, which are summarised below. The University aims to allow all events to go ahead, in line with current UK legislation that relates to freedom of expression.
Process for organising an event
If you鈥檙e organising an event as outlined above you must consider whether the views being discussed:
- infringe the rights of others
- discriminate against others
- risk drawing people into terrorism*
- risk breaking
You must also consider whether the event:
- is a criminal offence
- incites others to commit a crime
- threatens public order or safety
- is contrary to people鈥檚 civil and human rights
A student or member of staff must be named as 鈥楶rincipal Organiser鈥� for any event, who is responsible for ensuring the event complies with the Code of Practice and Regulation 18. If the topic of the event has the potential to offend, cause protests, contains extreme views or has a speaker from a political party the 鈥楶rincipal Organiser鈥� must give at least two weeks鈥� notice to the Vice-President (Community & Inclusion), Professor Jane White, who is responsible for external speaker requests at the University.
For the full details, please read Regulation 18: Freedom of expression (last updated August 2024).
You can read the , if you wish to organise an event through an SU society or student group.
*The makes exceptions for freedom of expression regulations for speakers with extremist views that risk drawing people into terrorism or are shared by terrorist groups. The UK Government also has a list of .
Process for organising a protest or demonstration
If you wish to organise a protest or demonstration on University premises you must also name a 鈥楶rincipal Organiser鈥�, who will liaise with Security Services about the nature of the protest.
For the full details, please read Regulation 18: Freedom of expression (last updated August 2024).