Freedom of Speech, Academic Freedom and Harassment
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to creating an environment where people can learn, work, debate and challenge ideas respectfully.
We support lawful freedom of speech and academic freedom whilst also promoting a safe, inclusive and respectful University community.
Sometimes concerns arise where individuals feel that their freedom of speech has been restricted, whilst others feel that speech or conduct has crossed the line into bullying, harassment or discrimination.
This page explains how these principles work together.
Our Principles
The University believes that:
- Freedom of speech is fundamental to higher education.
- Academic freedom is essential to teaching, learning and research.
- People should be able to express lawful opinions and beliefs.
- Individuals should be treated with dignity and respect.
- Harassment, discrimination and unlawful behaviour are not acceptable.
- Disagreement does not automatically constitute harassment.
- Feeling offended does not necessarily mean freedom of speech should be restricted.
- Freedom of speech carries responsibilities as well as rights.
What Is Freedom of Speech?
Freedom of speech is the right to express lawful opinions, ideas and beliefs.
This includes:
- discussing controversial topics
- debating ideas
- challenging accepted viewpoints
- expressing political, philosophical or religious beliefs
- participating in lawful protest and discussion
Universities play an important role in supporting robust debate and the exchange of ideas.
What Is Academic Freedom?
Academic freedom protects the ability of academic staff, researchers and students to:
- teach
- learn
- research
- publish
- discuss ideas
without fear of institutional censorship or disadvantage because of lawful academic viewpoints.
Academic freedom is a cornerstone of higher education.
What Is Harassment?
Harassment is different from simply expressing an opinion.
Under the Equality Act 2010, harassment is unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic that has the purpose or effect of:
- violating a person's dignity; or
- creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
Examples may include:
- targeted abuse
- intimidation
- threats
- Repeated unwanted conduct
- discriminatory behaviour
- hateful conduct directed at individuals
Does Being Offended Mean Harassment Has Occurred?
Not necessarily.
Universities are places where people will encounter views, opinions and ideas that they may strongly disagree with.
The expression of a lawful opinion does not automatically become harassment because someone finds it upsetting, uncomfortable or offensive.
However, freedom of speech does not protect behaviour that:
- amounts to harassment
- constitutes discrimination
- involves threats or intimidation
- incites violence
- is otherwise unlawful
Each situation must be considered carefully and in context.
Balancing Rights
The University seeks to balance competing rights and interests fairly.
This may include considering:
- freedom of speech
- academic freedom
- equality rights
- dignity and respect
- safeguarding responsibilities
- the impact of behaviour on others
- relevant legal obligations
Not every disagreement requires intervention.
However, where concerns are raised, the University will carefully and proportionately consider the circumstances.
What If I Am Concerned About Freedom of Speech?
If you believe your lawful freedom of speech or academic freedom has been restricted, you can raise a concern through the University's Report + Support system.
Freedom of Speech concerns are reviewed through the University's Freedom of Speech procedures.
The University will consider:
- the nature of the concern
- the context in which it occurred
- relevant policies and legislation
- any competing rights that may be engaged
What If I Feel I Have Experienced Harassment?
If you believe you have experienced harassment, bullying, discrimination or related misconduct, support is available.
You can:
- access support services
- seek advice
- raise a concern through Report + Support
- Discuss the informal or formal options available
Each concern will be considered on its own facts and circumstances.
Promoting Respectful Debate
Members of the University community are encouraged to:
- challenge ideas rather than individuals
- engage respectfully with differing viewpoints
- listen to alternative perspectives
- debate constructively
- contribute to an inclusive learning environment
Disagreement is a normal and valuable part of university life.
Respectful dialogue allows ideas to be explored, challenged and developed whilst maintaining a safe and inclusive community.
Remember
Freedom of speech, academic freedom and dignity at work and study are all important values within the University.
The University is committed to protecting lawful expression whilst also ensuring that members of our community are able to study, work and participate free from harassment, discrimination and unlawful conduct.