Understanding Your Rights and How to Raise Concerns
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to promoting and protecting lawful freedom of speech and academic freedom.
Universities are places where people should feel able to:
- Express lawful opinions.
- Debate ideas.
- Challenge assumptions.
- Explore difficult topics.
- Engage in academic enquiry.
- Participate in respectful discussion.
Sometimes, however, individuals may feel that their freedom of speech has been restricted or that they have been prevented from expressing lawful views.
This guidance explains what freedom of speech means, what it does not mean, and what support is available if you believe your freedom of speech has been affected.
What Is Freedom Of Speech?
Freedom of speech is the right to express lawful views, opinions and ideas without unjustified restriction.
This includes:
- Political views.
- Religious beliefs.
- Academic viewpoints.
- Social opinions.
- Participation in debate and discussion.
The University is committed to fostering an environment where lawful speech can take place, including speech that may be controversial, challenging or unpopular.
Freedom Of Speech Does Not Mean Freedom From Disagreement
Universities encourage:
- Debate.
- Critical thinking.
- Challenge.
- Academic scrutiny.
People may disagree with your views.
They may challenge your arguments.
They may present alternative perspectives.
This is a normal and important part of university life.
Disagreement, criticism or challenge does not necessarily mean that freedom of speech has been restricted.
What Is Not Protected?
Freedom of speech protects lawful expression.
It does not protect:
- Harassment.
- Threats.
- Intimidation.
- Unlawful discrimination.
- Incitement to violence.
- Support for terrorism.
- Other forms of unlawful speech.
The University has responsibilities to balance freedom of speech with the rights, safety and wellbeing of others.
When Might Someone Feel Their Freedom Of Speech Has Been Restricted?
Examples may include:
- An event being cancelled or postponed.
- A speaker invitation being challenged.
- Restrictions being placed on an event.
- Concerns regarding academic discussion.
- Concerns regarding participation in debate.
- Feeling unable to express lawful views.
Sometimes these concerns arise because of misunderstandings about processes, legal duties or risk assessments.
The University encourages individuals to raise concerns where they believe their freedom of speech may have been affected.
External Speakers And Freedom Of Speech
The University operates an External Speaker Process to help ensure that events can take place safely and lawfully.
The purpose of this process is to:
- Enable lawful speech.
- Consider risks proportionately.
- Protect participants.
- Meet legal obligations.
The existence of a review process does not mean that speech is being restricted.
In most cases, the focus is on identifying how an event can proceed safely rather than preventing it from taking place.
Importantly, decisions relating to refusal of external speaker events can only be made through the University's formal governance arrangements and by the University Secretary or an appropriately delegated authority.
What Should I Do If I Have A Concern?
If you believe your lawful freedom of speech may have been restricted, you should raise the matter through the appropriate University process.
This may involve:
- Speaking with the relevant member of staff.
- Seeking clarification about a decision.
- Discussing concerns with your School
- Report via Report + Support .
- Using formal University procedures where appropriate.
Often concerns can be resolved quickly through discussion and clarification.
What Information Should I Provide?
When raising a concern, it is helpful to explain:
- What happened.
- When it happened.
- Who was involved.
- Why you believe freedom of speech has been affected.
- What outcome you are seeking.
Providing clear information helps the University understand and review the concern appropriately.
How Will The University Respond?
The University will consider concerns fairly and objectively.
This may include:
- Reviewing relevant information.
- Considering legal duties.
- Assessing whether freedom of speech obligations have been met.
- Identifying whether further action is required.
The University is committed to ensuring that concerns are considered proportionately and in accordance with its legal responsibilities.
Seeking Advice
You do not need to navigate these issues alone.
If you are unsure whether a matter relates to freedom of speech, academic freedom or another University process, advice and guidance are available.
Seeking advice early can often help clarify concerns and identify the most appropriate route forward.
Other sources of support
- Amnesty provides information on freedom of expression.
- Free Speech Union provide information on freedom of speech, freedom of expression, academic freedom, freedom of the press and freedom of religion. They provide support for people looking for information or guidance.
- English Pen provides information on free speech in the UK.
- Liberty provides information on freedom of expression.
Key Message
The University of Wolverhampton is committed to protecting lawful freedom of speech and academic freedom.
If you believe your ability to express lawful views has been restricted, you are encouraged to raise your concerns so they can be considered appropriately.
Freedom of speech is a fundamental part of university life, and the University is committed to ensuring that lawful debate, discussion and academic enquiry can take place in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.