The University of Oxford has been accused of “failing to protect staff and students” from sexual harassment because of its “structural weaknesses and governance fragmentation”.
In an emergency briefing sent to all members, the University and College Union (UCU) branch at Oxford has warned that the university’s college-based system and use of emeritus professorships may be putting female colleagues at risk.
It follows a series of allegations of sexual harassment at the university involving junior female staff members and senior academics.
Among the cases featured by the UCU are that of Soumitra Dutta, the former dean of the Said Business School, who was found by an internal investigation to have breached Oxford’s harassment policy, according to reporting by Bloomberg.
Miles Hewstone, who, according to The Times, retained his emeritus status even after resigning as a professor while under investigation over alleged harassment, is also highlighted.
The union report says that Oxford’s collegiate structure – in which colleges are legally independent charities – “has been a major barrier to safeguarding”, adding that while information-sharing agreements exist, the university’s central administration may withhold investigation findings from colleges, and colleges and departments may apply inconsistent restrictions.
Additionally, while academics may have their activities restricted in one part of the university, they may be able to continue as normal elsewhere.
The briefing added that emeritus status granted to retired professors can act as a “shield from accountability”.
It said there is an “absence of effective disciplinary mechanisms for emeritus professors” as they are able to continue using university titles after they have left the university, retain access to institution and college premises, and continue to use their university email addresses and professional affiliation.
This has “enabled continued contact with students and junior academics after allegations were raised or partially upheld, without meaningful restrictions”, it says.
They write that reports of sexual harassment at Oxford “consistently point to structural weaknesses, governance fragmentation”, and said “status-based immunity” has allowed alleged perpetrators to “retain access, authority, and credibility long after serious concerns are raised”.
The emergency briefing says: “Sexual misconduct at Oxford is not a series of isolated failures, but the product of structural gaps: emeritus immunity, fragmented governance, secrecy, and entrenched power imbalances. These conditions allow accused individuals to retain access and influence while complainants bear the risks – professional, psychological, and personal – of speaking out.”
The union said practices and procedures “must be reviewed to ensure that they prioritise the establishment of safe learning and work environments, rather than protecting the reputation of senior academics”.
An Oxford spokesperson said: “Sexual harassment has no place at Oxford. Our sympathies and thoughts are with anyone who has experienced harassment or misconduct. We strive to ensure that Oxford is always a safe space for all students and staff.
“We take concerns seriously and support for those affected is a priority. We reject any suggestion that the university tolerates harassment or puts reputation before people’s safety.
“While we cannot comment on individual cases, we are committed to continuous improvement and have strengthened our approach over recent years. Our Single Comprehensive Source of Information sets out our approach, support and training. We encourage anyone who has a concern to raise it.”
