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External speaker information

A man stands in front of a crowd talking to them

External speakers play an important role in University life, giving members of our community an opportunity to have access to a broad range of ideas and opinions and supporting our students to make their own contribution to the University, which flourishes when new ideas are generated and different viewpoints are created. 

We have a responsibility to protect academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law, and to ensure that a diversity of ideas and opinions can be expressed on our campuses and our online events. We have a vital role to play in convening difficult and sometimes uncomfortable conversations, and in curating the spaces in which ideas can be lawfully expressed and debated.

Our Code of Practice: Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech ensures we support academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law, while putting measures in place for consultation and counter-speech and making available support for members in our community who may find some lawful views objectionable or offensive.

Speaker Protocol 

Our Speaker Protocol (.pdf) outlines the proportionate and risk-based process that we operate to ensure that anyone invited from outside our University community is aware of our expectations to promote academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law. The Protocol applies to all speakers participating and contributing to activities of the University, the University of Essex Students’ Union and University of Essex Faith Centre. It is underpinned first and foremost by the requirements for the University to act lawfully and to fulfil our statutory obligations, which are paramount.  It is also rooted in our values and our commitment to an inclusive community.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy sets out our obligations under equality legislation.  In order to realise our commitment to inclusivity, we strive to go beyond the minimum standards required by law, wherever we can and where it is lawful to do so, to ensure that we recognise, respect and protect all members of our community.

Bringing your own IT equipment

It is your responsibility to ensure that any IT equipment that you bring with you for your event is fit for purpose, electrically safe and with up to date safeguards against viruses and malware.

Where you are provided with access to any University IT facilities, hardware, software or networks, you must only use these for the purposes of delivering your event.

Your use of IT should be lawful. 

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