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Freedom of speech and academic freedom at NTU

NTU considers that freedom of speech and expression is at the heart of what universities are for, where the freedom to express ideas and debate opinions is a fundamental principle. It is acknowledged that pursuit of these aims requires free and open enquiry within the law, including the airing of ideas or perspectives which may be unpopular or cause offence.

Our commitment

We are committed to protecting and promoting free speech and academic freedom so that our students and colleagues can become acquainted with diverse viewpoints and provide an environment that encourages peaceful debate. Students will be supported to develop skills to engage with new ideas and perspectives. Colleagues will be supported in developing and disseminating the insights generated by the evidence from their research, scholarship, and practice.

This commitment to promote freedom of speech and academic freedom does not however require tolerance of abuse, threats, incitement to violence, hatred, discrimination, or other unlawful acts. The Equality Act 2010 protects people from direct and indirect discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the basis of their protected characteristics. In exercising freedom of speech and academic freedom, we must therefore ensure that this remains lawful at all times.

We provide an inclusive and supportive environment for all our students and colleagues, reflecting our core values embedded within Our Principles, Our Ways. Our approach is consistent at all times with our legal responsibilities to protect and promote free speech and academic freedom as detailed in the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023.

This stance encompasses our academic colleagues being clear they have the freedom within the law to question and test received wisdom. This means they can put forward new ideas and controversial or unpopular opinions without placing themselves at risk of losing their jobs or any privileges they may have at the University or the likelihood of their securing promotion or different jobs at the University being reduced.

This commitment is intended to inform all of our specific policies that have implications for the freedom of speech and academic freedom. This statement is intended to provide a framework for any decision-making on behalf of the University that may have implications for the freedom of speech. Such policies and their implementation in practice within this context will be kept under review and revised as may be required.

Further information on the University’s approach to Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom is available in its Code of Practice.