St Andrews University Chancellor Election: Free Speech at Stake?

Alumni group urges voters to support candidates who will protect free expression on campus

Apr. 12, 2026 at 1:34pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting a university administrative building or office space, with warm sunlight streaming through the windows and deep shadows cast across the facade, conveying a sense of contemplation and the weight of the upcoming election's impact on free expression.The St Andrews Chancellor election could determine the future of free speech on this historic campus.Glen Cove Today

The election for Chancellor at St Andrews University is a pivotal moment for free speech on campus. With 7,072 staff and alumni registered to vote, the outcome could significantly impact the university's approach to controversial issues like EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion). Alumni For Free Speech (AFFS), a group dedicated to preserving free speech, has analyzed the candidates' positions and is urging voters to support those who will protect free expression.

Why it matters

The St Andrews Chancellor election is a small but crucial opportunity to apply pressure and potentially bring about positive change regarding free speech on campus. The subtle culture of self-censorship imposed by mandatory EDI training remains a significant concern, and AFFS is calling for greater transparency and a senior figure to promote and protect free speech.

The details

AFFS has sent questionnaires to the four Chancellor candidates and published a report offering both hope and concern. Two candidates, Lord Mark Sedwill and Lady Alex Walmsley, provided detailed responses expressing encouraging views on free speech. However, the report also highlights the ongoing issue of self-censorship due to EDI training requirements.

  • The election for Chancellor at St Andrews University is taking place in 2026.
  • AFFS has published its report analyzing the candidates' positions ahead of the vote.

The players

Alumni For Free Speech (AFFS)

An organization dedicated to preserving free speech on university campuses.

Lord Mark Sedwill

One of the four candidates for Chancellor at St Andrews University who expressed encouraging views on free speech in the AFFS report.

Lady Alex Walmsley

One of the four candidates for Chancellor at St Andrews University who expressed encouraging views on free speech in the AFFS report.

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What they’re saying

“We must take steps such as making EDI training content public and appointing a senior figure to promote and protect free speech.”

— Alumni For Free Speech (AFFS), Organization

What’s next

If you're a former St Andrews student registered to vote, AFFS is urging you to read their report and consider casting your vote to support candidates who will protect free speech on campus.

The takeaway

The St Andrews Chancellor election is a small but crucial opportunity to apply pressure and potentially bring about positive change regarding free speech on campus. The outcome could significantly impact the university's approach to controversial issues like EDI and the ongoing issue of self-censorship.