ACADEMIC FREEDOM PROCEDURE

1.1 Words and phrases used in this procedure document and not otherwise defined here have the meanings assigned to them in the Academic Freedom Policy (PL-AC-10).

1.2 The following words and expressions are specific to this document and shall have the meanings hereby assigned to them:

1.3 Where a word or phrase is given a particular meaning, other parts of speech and grammatical forms of that word or phrase have corresponding meanings.

1.4 Where the context requires, words importing the singular shall include the plural and vice-versa.

1.5 Where a word or phrase is given a particular meaning, other parts of speech and grammatical forms of that word or phrase have corresponding meanings.

2.1 The purpose of this procedure is to list the steps an Academic Member can take if they feel their Academic Freedom has been limited or compromised in some way.

3.1 Where an Academic Member believes, based on reasonable grounds, that their Academic Freedom may have been limited or compromised in a manner inconsistent with the applicable University’s policies or procedures, they may seek initial guidance from their Department/Program Head. Any such concern must be grounded in a demonstrable academic context and substantiated by relevant facts or circumstances.

3.2 If the matter appears to warrant further attention, the Department/Program Head may refer the concern to the Dean/Academic Manager.

3.3 The Dean/Academic Manager will assess and resolve the situation. If there is any uncertainty about the severity of the incident, and the issue appears significant or unclear, the Dean/Academic Manager will consult with the Office of the Vice-President, Academics.

3.4 The Vice-President, Academics will assess the situation and take appropriate action, in consultation with the University’s Legal Affairs Directorate.

3.5 If the Academic Member’s Academic Freedom concern involves their line manager, they may bring the case to their Dean/Academic Manager.

3.6 If the Academic Member’s Academic Freedom concern involves their Dean/Academic Manager, they may bring the case immediately to the Office of the Vice President, Academics.

3.7 Where resolution is not achieved at the level of the Vice-President, Academics, Academic Members may escalate the matter in accordance with the Human Resources Policy (PL-HR-01).

3.8 Academic Members are expected to exercise Academic Freedom responsibly and in accordance with the University’s academic policies, Human Resources Policy (PL-HR-01), and code of conduct.

3.9 Where concerns arise that an Academic Member’s exercise of Academic Freedom may conflict with Qatari culture, values, or legal norms, the matter will be reviewed by the Vice-President, Academics in consultation with the University’s Legal Affairs Directorate. A written justification for any decision to restrict academic expression must be documented.

4.1 PL-AC-10: Academic Freedom Policy.

4.2 PL-HR-01: Human Resources Policy.