Report reveals UK universities’ shortcomings in safeguarding gender-critical academics | Higher Education

Universities in the UK have not done enough to safeguard academics who hold gender-critical views from harassment and restrictions on their research, according to a new report. The document, written by Professor Alice Sullivan from University College London, suggests that those involved in harassment that limits freedoms should face sanctions that match the severity of their actions. Professor Sullivan’s study brings to light serious concerns about the barriers to academic freedom within UK universities, where researchers focusing on critical issues related to sex and gender have faced persistent intimidation campaigns. The report also points out that the recently updated Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Act, due to come into effect in August, will uphold the rights of researchers in England and calls for similar measures in other parts of the UK. The report’s evidence pre-dates the UK Supreme Court’s ruling in April on the definition of biological sex.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/education/2025/jul/02/uk-universities-have-failed-to-protect-gender-critical-academics-report-finds