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Motion

Motion title
ance to Branches on Free Speech and Academic Freedom
Meeting date
29 May 2024
Motion
12
Motion text

Congress notes the outcome of a number of recent employment, and employment appeal tribunals. These have involved potential conflicts between academic freedom, free speech and standards of workplace conduct. As a result the rights and responsibilities of education staff are not clear, nor are the responsibilities of union branches in cases where there is a perceived conflict between academic freedom and contractual obligations.
Accordingly, Congress instructs the NEC to:
1. commission expert advice on the law with regard to academic freedom, equalities, and conduct in the workplace, including the implications of recent decisions;
2. draw up and issue legally sound guidance for use by branches in cases where questions of academic freedom or free speech are raised, with particular reference to a branch's obligation to support members, and to the boundary between free expression and potential misconduct;
3. incorporate this guidance into statements of relevant policy.

Proposing body
University of Bath
Amended
No
Notes

Administrative info

Listing reference
2024/C/05-29/028/12