Southampton Solent University celebrates and values the fundamental importance of protecting freedom of speech in both academic life and the wider community and the University’s core value of respect and inclusivity. Freedom of speech and academic freedom are central to the role of the University in advancing new ideas, encouraging debate, and challenging conventional wisdom.
We are committed to upholding and promoting the right of the freedom of speech within the law for our students, staff and visiting speakers.
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 Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech details the University’s duty to secure and promote freedom of speech and academic freedom within the law for students, staff and visiting speakers.
