SOAS signs pledge to end the use of Non-Disclosure Agreements

23 May 2022

SOAS recently signed the government and campaigner backed pledge which commits universities against using legally-binding NDAs against students or staff reporting abuse, a significant step towards a safer and more inclusive university environment.

The pledge, backed by campaigners and the government, commits SOAS to not using legally-binding NDAs against students and staff who come forward to report abuse or misconduct.

Khadir Meer, Chief Operating Officer & Clerk, Board of Trustees said:

“SOAS is committed to not using NDAs in settlement agreements with individuals who have complained of sexual misconduct, harassment or bullying. We have a duty of care towards our staff and students and take reports of abuse seriously.  We are committed to taking appropriate action where behaviour falls short of our values, policies and procedures”.

The SOAS SU offers students sexual consent training via the Enough is Enough campaign to tackle issues around sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) including consent workshops and survivor consent workshops available to all SOAS students.

View the list of UK universities, including SOAS, that have signed the pledge on the Can't Buy My Silence campaign website.

Find out more about the Enough is Enough campaign on the SU website.

Find out more about the use of Non-Disclosure Agreements in UK universities.