Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech

The University and York SU have agreed a joint Code of Practice on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech, to support the University as a place of vigorous enquiry, discussion and debate. This Code of Practice is made up of the following documents:

• Policy and Procedures on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech (PDF , 289kb)
• Designating and supporting potentially sensitive events (v.Nov 2026) (PDF , 639kb)
  • Potentially Sensitive Events procedure: questions to consider (PDF , 79kb)
    
    • Risk Assessment Form
    • Supporting Guidance
  • Membership of the Potentially Sensitive Events Group (PDF , 53kb)
  • Areas for consideration by the Potentially Sensitive Events Group (v.April 2026) (PDF , 83kb)
• Protest Policy
• Approach to handling complaints (updated August 2026) (PDF , 81kb)
• Procedures for complaints by third parties (PDF , 88kb)

The Office for Students (OfS) operates a free speech complaints scheme. Under that scheme, the OfS can review complaints about free speech from non-student members, staff, applicants for academic posts and (actual or invited) visiting speakers. The scheme is free to use. Information about the complaints that the OfS can review is available on its website.

Read our statement on Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech