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Freedom of Speech

Students sat talking around a table on campus

Here at the University of Salford, we aim to protect and promote the fundamental right to freedom of speech, in line with new duties under the Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act 2023. 

We have taken steps to ensure both freedom of speech and academic freedom are protected and encouraged for all students and staff at Salford.

What is Freedom of Speech?

Freedom of speech exists within the wider concept of freedom of expression, which is the right ‘to hold opinions and to receive and impart information and ideas without interference by public authority and regardless of frontiers’ as protected by and defined within the Human Rights Act 1998, (Section 10). It is a fundamental, democratic principle, which allows individuals to express their opinions without fear of censorship or legal sanction.

Why It Matters

It’s vital that there is an open exchange of ideas within a democratic society, and especially in universities as a place of learning. Encouraging free debate leads to greater academic discussion, enables deeper questioning of ideas and sharing of perspectives, and provides the opportunity for those with differing views to understand each other better within a safe and respectful environment. 

What does this mean for me?

  • In practice, our commitment to freedom of speech means that access to university premises will not be denied to any student, staff member or guest speaker based on the grounds of that individual’s beliefs, ideas or views, or those of the body they may belong to.
  • While there may be extreme exceptions, where events cannot go ahead for reasons of safety, our commitment to freedom of speech means that those with views which may be deemed ‘controversial’ have as much of a right to express their views on our campus as any other person. Equally, those who seek to challenge another’s views have the right to do so.
  • This right extends to activities with the Students’ Union, and to protests on campus.
  • There is also a new complaints scheme for students, staff and guests who feel their right to freedom of speech has been breached.

What about academic freedom?

Academic staff at the university have the right to academic freedom. This means that they can question and test received wisdom within their field, and put forward new, controversial or unpopular ideas, without facing the risk of being adversely affected in their career. Any views they express will not lead to the loss of their job or privileges or impact the likelihood of promotion or securing another role with us.

Find more information in our code of practice.