Social safety is an indispensable part of good science and education. In practice, the structure may often fail bringing major consequences and be damaging for all parties involved. Numerous studies and reports have revealed problems relating to inappropriate behaviour at various academic institutions in the Netherlands. In 2022, professors from most Dutch universities gathered to write a report for the Royal Dutch Academy of Science, acknowledging the problem and mapping out a system for determining safe behaviour in order to aid both academic and management staff at universities in setting a safe working culture, and setting a roadmap for the future. Moreover, the ministry of education is collaborating with different academic institutions in improving social climates and many universities have started independent research into their own social climates and safety. 

The issue of social safety in universities has recently sparked protests throughout the city of Groningen, showing how important the topic is for both academics and students. At this lecture, we hope to make our audience more aware of what a socially safe environment entails. Dr. Kathryn Roberts from the Faculty of Arts has accepted our invitation to share her knowledge regarding social safety, patriarchal structures in academia and academic freedom. It will be possible to join a discussion about the topic and recent events regarding academic freedom at universities in the Netherlands.