Inter-University Council on Academic Freedom commends introduction of University of Auckland Freedom of Expression statement

12 December 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Inter-University Council on Academic Freedom commends introduction of University of Auckland Freedom of Expression statement

The University of Auckland has officially confirmed a strong freedom of expression statement, following approval from the University’s Council on Wednesday.  

Not only does the statement lead the way in terms of quality, it also demonstrates that where internal processes allow for strong engagement from academics, and academics answer that call, an effective outcome can be reached.  

"Universities are places where difficult questions should be explored, not settled by institutional decree," Hamilton-Hart says.

“The commitment to institutional neutrality affirms that the university’s role is to host debate, not pick sides in it."

The statement represents an important step toward protecting the open inquiry that universities exist to foster. It recognises institutional neutrality as a foundational commitment for open discourse, and confirms the University’s intent to foster debate on all topics, and ensure everyone’s right to express their views.  

The confirmed statement was developed by a Senate working group, chaired by Distinguished Professor Sir Peter Hunter, and with support from Professor Nikki Harré and the Vice-Chancellor's Advisory Group on Freedom of Expression. It was the final product of extensive discussion and debate, including the overwhelming rejection of a previous draft version by the University’s Senate last September.
 

Despite the length of the process, it demonstrates the effectiveness of the University’s Senate model, in providing academics with a platform through which to express their perspectives on the University’s operation and character.  

The Inter-University Council on Academic Freedom commends the leaders and academics involved, both for the quality of the statement, and for the rigorous process through which it was developed.

Natasha Hamilton-Hart (University of Auckland)

Co-Chair, Inter-University Council on Academic Freedom