Freedom of speech and academic freedom are central to the role and purpose of universities. Without freedom of speech and academic freedom, we would not be able to fulfil two of our most essential aims: the advancement of understanding and the pursuit of truth.
That may seem an obvious statement but, in the current context, it needs to be reaffirmed.
Recent months and years have seen far greater scrutiny of the role of the higher education sector in promoting debate. However, for some, the long-held track record of universities for championing free speech and rigorous discussion has been called into question.
