Open to Argument

Many topics – from abortion to Islam, from colonialism to gender – are becoming hard to discuss in universities, such is the fear of controversy and the desire to shut down opposing views.

The Committee for Academic Freedom, in partnership with institutions across the UK, is staging a series of academic seminars and debates on precisely these topics. Its aim is show that UK universities are still places in which even the most polarising subjects can be discussed freely and robustly.

All events are open to the public and free to attend.

COVID Lockdowns and Liberty: What Did Britain Get Right (and Wrong)?

19 November 2025

Ukraine – Was Russia’s invasion provoked by Western policy?

2 June 2025

In partnership with: London Universities’ Council for Academic Freedom (LUCAF)

Speakers: Sir Tony Brenton, Professor Sir Lawrence Freedman, Lord Robert Skidelsky, John Lough

Chair: Bronwen Maddox

Hosted by: King’s College London

Will Trump’s Second Presidency be Good or Bad for Academic Freedom?

10 March 2025

In partnership with: Queen Mary University of London AFAF

Speakers: Eric Kaufmann and James Orr. Alan Sokal and Helen Pluckrose

Chair: Anna Loutfi

Hosted by: School of Mathematical Sciences, Mile End Road Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS