UEL Freedom of Speech
Introduction
The University of East London is committed to being an inclusive University where all members of our community demonstrate mutual respect and tolerance for each other.
Challenge and debate are central to the pursuit of knowledge within universities. We understand that debate can sometimes be uncomfortable for individuals and groups, and we want our students and staff to have healthy (and sometimes challenging) debates, whilst nurturing in staff and students the skills and resilience needed throughout their careers.
We also have a legal duty to meet the requirements of the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. This legal duty includes that steps are taken to ensure that freedom of speech is secured as far as practically possible and within the boundary of the law for staff, students, members and visiting speakers.
The Code of Practice further explains our legal responsibilities under the Act and the scope of responsibility in complying with UEL policies, statutory obligations and the law.
Definitions
UEL has adopted the Universities UK definitions of freedom of speech and academic freedom. Although often used interchangeably they are different terms that relate to each other.
Freedom of speech means everyone has the right to express lawful views and opinions freely, in speech or in writing, without interference.
Academic freedom means protecting the intellectual independence of academics to question and test received views and wisdom, and to put forward new ideas and controversial or unpopular opinions, without placing themselves in danger of losing their jobs or privileges or reducing the likelihood of them securing promotion or different roles at the university.
Our approach
Our approach to Freedom of Speech is one of transparency and support.
A Freedom of Speech Advisory Group has been set up and includes representatives from academic, legal, governance, People and Culture and student service departments. The UEL Students’ Union is also represented.
The role of the Advisory Group is to:
- Have oversight of an action plan and its implementation, ensuring compliance with our legal duties and responsibilities to our staff, students and external speakers.
- Review relevant policies and procedures to ensure compliance with legal requirements and that support and guidance are provided to the university community.
- Have oversight to ensure that appropriate training is made available for staff.
External speakers, events and room bookings
UEL commits to ensuring the use of the University premises is not denied to any individual or body of individuals on any grounds connected with their beliefs or views, of their policy or objectives, within the law.
Raising concerns
Whilst healthy and respectful debate empowers us to challenge discrimination, intolerance and harmful attitudes, it must be within the framework of the law and free from fear of discrimination, intimidation, bullying, or harassment.
- All individuals (whether staff, student or external) and organisations can appeal should an individual or organization be refused the opportunity to encourage debate on UEL premises (this includes lectures, seminars, speaker events).
- All individuals can make a complaint where a decision to refuse a debate has been upheld.
- All students, staff and those external to the University may make a complaint on any grounds related to Freedom of Expression or Freedom of Speech.
Further information
Contact fos@uel.ac.uk.
- Report and support
- Student code of conduct policy
- Prevent and safeguarding
- Equality, Diversity and inclusion policies
- Social media policy
Approved 14 February 2024 by the University Executive Board