York St John is dedicated to promoting fairness and challenging prejudice as an equitable, inclusive organisation. At the same time universities must be places where ideas are explored, tested and debated. As a student, you are part of a learning community that encourages curiosity, critical thinking and open discussion. This means you will encounter a wide range of views, some which you may agree with, and others that you might find challenging or uncomfortable.
This guide is designed to help you understand what freedom of speech means in practice, how it connects to your rights, and how it sits alongside the University’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
Why freedom of speech matters
Freedom of speech and academic freedom are essential to university life. They allow students and staff to:
• Question assumptions and explore new ideas
• Challenge established thinking
• Engage in debate on complex or sensitive issues
• Learn from different perspectives
Being exposed to differing viewpoints is a central part of the University experience. Learning often involves disagreement, uncertainty and intellectual challenge.
The University's commitment
The University is legally required to freedom of speech within the law, in line with its legal duties under UK higher education legislation and regulation.
This means:
• Lawful expression is protected, even if it is controversial, unpopular or uncomfortable
• Students, staff and visiting speakers can express ideas freely within legal boundaries
• The University will not restrict speech simply because it is offensive or disagreed with
This applies across teaching and learning, research and academic debate and events, speakers and student activities.
At the same time, the University is equally committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. These values do not conflict with freedom of speech, they work alongside it to ensure a respectful and inclusive learning environment. Inclusivity means holding space for lawful views that are far ranging and contested.
What you can expect as a student
During your studies, it is normal to encounter ideas that challenge your personal beliefs or values, opinions you strongly disagree with and discussions on sensitive or contested topics.
It is important to understand that:
• Exposure to challenging material does not mean the University endorses those views
• Feeling offended or uncomfortable does not automatically mean something is unlawful
• Debate and disagreement are part of academic development
Lawful vs unlawful speech
A key distinction is whether speech is lawful.
Lawful speech includes:
• Expressing opinions and beliefs
• Criticising ideas, institutions or policies
• Debating political, social, religious or cultural issues
Unlawful speech includes:
• Threats or intimidation targeted at individuals
• Harassment or discriminatory abuse (as defined in law)
• Inciting violence or hatred
• Promoting terrorism or extremist organisations
It is possible for speech to be upsetting or offensive and still be lawful.
When the University will take action
The University does not intervene simply because a view is unpopular or causes discomfort. However, it will act when:
• Speech breaks the law
• Behaviour amounts to harassment targeted at individuals
• There is a risk to safety or wellbeing of an individual
• There are concerns about violence, radicalisation or extremism
The University has legal duties to protect freedom of speech, prevent harm, and uphold equality law. Decisions are made by balancing these responsibilities carefully.
Disagreement is not harassment
It is important to distinguish between disagreement and harassment.
• Disagreeing with someone’s views, even strongly, is not harassment
• Expressing lawful opinions, including those others find offensive, is not a breach of human rights
• Harassment involves targeted behaviour that violates dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile or degrading environment (as defined in law)
Understanding this distinction helps ensure that complaints are used appropriately and that freedom of speech is protected for everyone.
Engaging in respectful and constructive debate
A respectful learning environment depends on how we engage with one another. You are encouraged to participate actively, while also being mindful of others.
Respectful engagement
• Focus on ideas, not individuals
• Avoid personal attacks or derogatory language
• Express your views clearly (e.g. “I think” or “I feel”)
• Do not engage in behaviour that intimidates or silences others
Constructive dialogue
• Use evidence, reasoning and critical thinking
• Stay calm, even in challenging discussions
• Be open to different perspectives
• Recognise that multiple viewpoints can exist
Active listening
• Listen fully before responding
• Try to understand the reasoning behind others’ views
• Ask questions to clarify, rather than assume
Freedom and speech and inclusion
Freedom of speech and inclusion are not opposites. A genuinely inclusive university:
• Encourages a wide range of voices and perspectives
• Supports open discussion, even on difficult topics
• Promotes mutual respect and dignity
You may encounter ideas that challenge your identity or beliefs. While this can be difficult, it is part of engaging in a diverse academic environment. At the same time, the University does not tolerate unlawful discrimination, abuse or harassment.
Your responsibilities as a student
With the right to freedom of speech comes responsibility. As a member of the University community, you are expected to:
• Engage respectfully with others
• Take responsibility for your words and actions
• Reflect on your own communication and behaviour
• Contribute to a culture of open, respectful debate
Meetings, speakers and events
The University supports the right to host events and invite speakers, even where views may be controversial.
Events will generally go ahead if speech is lawful. However, the University may:
• Set conditions to ensure safety and order
• Require balanced debate in some cases
• Intervene or cancel events where there is a legal or safety risk
You are expected to:
• Allow others to speak without disruption
• Avoid obstructing or silencing viewpoints
• Follow reasonable instructions from event organisers
Getting support and further information
If something concerns you:
• Speak to your academic team
• Contact student support or welfare services
• Review the University’s Code of Practice on Freedom of Speech and Academic Freedom - Freedom of speech | York St John University
You are also encouraged to engage with guidance on protests, events and respectful debate.
• Review the Protest Guidance - Protest Guidance
• Review the Protocol on room bookings and the distribution of printed materials and memorabilia - Protocol on room bookings and the distribution of printed materials and memorabilia