Universities & higher education sector - freedom of speech

The concepts of freedom of speech and academic freedom are fundamental pillars within society and academia. However, increasingly conflicting opinions and ‘cancel culture’ are cited in the media and Universities are at the forefront having to navigate and manage many of these high profile and sensitive situations.

This session will look at the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill and the rights and obligations of the University to its staff, students and visiting speakers. We will explore the responsibilities on staff when expressing opinions and their use of social media; striking that balance between an individual’s right to privacy and freedom of expression and the University’s right to protect its reputation and the viewpoints of others.