Do we have too much free speech in the UK, or not enough?

Where do we draw the line between free expression and protection from harm? Join us for a provocative, open floor debate covering campus culture, online safety, hate speech, and the fear of being cancelled. Come ready to listen, speak, and challenge your perspectives. Disagreement is encouraged; hostility is not.

Host: Dr Leon Hawthorne, Cardiff University, School of Journalism, Media and Culture.

Venue: JOMEC Large Lecture Theatre, Room 0.06.

Panel:

Professor Karen Goodrow - Yale University, Jackson School of Global Affairs.

Professor Urfan Khaliq - Cardiff University, Pro Vice Chancellor and Head of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Connie Shaw. Free Speech Union, External Affairs Officer.

Professor Thomas Prosser - Cardiff Academic Freedom Association, Convener.

Outline:

From university campuses to social media feeds, the boundaries of acceptable speech in the UK are more contested than ever. Are our laws striking the right balance, or are we drifting into a culture of self-censorship and fear? Join us for an engaging and unfiltered Free-Speech Debate, where we will tackle some of the most contentious cultural, political, and academic questions of our time.

Format:

This event is designed to champion open, respectful, and robust dialogue. We will feature opening remarks from guest speakers, followed by an open-floor Q&A and discussion where the audience asks the questions. Whether you lean toward absolute free speech or believe robust safeguards are essential for social cohesion, your voice belongs in this room.

Possible subjects to explore:

Offence vs. Protection: Do vulnerable groups need legal protection from hateful or hurtful speech, or must we all tolerate being offended?

Free Speech on Campus: Are certain subjects becoming taboo for academic research, and how should universities handle controversial visiting speakers?

The Protest Culture: Where is the line when protesting sensitive global and domestic issues—from Israel and Palestine to trans rights, race, and anti-racism?

The ‘Cancel Culture’ Climate: Should you have to watch what you say for fear of professional or social cancellation?

Disclaimer: Views expressed by participants are their own and not that of their employer or organisation.

Description supplied by the event organiser.