Professor David Ruebain, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) and University Free Speech Officer, wrote to all staff and students on Friday 23 January 2026. You can read the full text of his email below.
As some of you might know, in line with its standard practice and legal and regulatory obligations, the University Students’ Union recently approved an application to establish a Reform student society. Subsequently, there has been comment and discussion on social media, including opposition to this decision and demands for the society to be prohibited.
Freedom of speech is one of the University's foundational commitments. We also have legal and regulatory obligations to uphold freedom of speech and academic freedom. Those who support and advocate for Reform, or any other UK political party, are entitled to do so. Sussex is a place of discussion, debate and disagreement, and as such it is unsurprising that this has led to robust debate within our community. That is as it should be. We are committed to ensuring that diversity in all its forms, including diversity of thought and belief, can flourish in our community, and we will always respect the right of members of our community to engage in lawful debate and disagreement.
We all must also ensure that debate and the exchange of views are consistent with our institutional values of inclusion, kindness, and openness, are conducted lawfully, respectfully, and are in line with the University's legal and regulatory obligations and our Dignity, Respect, and Inclusion Policy. The University will not tolerate bullying, discrimination or harassment, and we will always seek to ensure the safety and security of all members of the University.
Exposure to ideas and viewpoints with which we have fundamental disagreements can be challenging and wellbeing support is available for students on the Student Hub’s Freedom of Speech page , which also contains information on how you can exercise your right to freedom of speech, and what to do if someone has expressed an opinion which has made you feel unsafe. For staff, please see information on academic freedom and freedom of speech, and wellbeing support information for staff can be found in the wellbeing area of the Staff Hub. Information about security and safety on campus is also available on the hub.
With good wishes,
David
Professor David Ruebain
Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Culture, Equality and Inclusion) and University Free Speech Officer