UK tribunal confirms professor’s anti-Zionism is legally protected belief

What the report says

A UK employment tribunal has upheld former University of Bristol professor David Miller’s claim that his dismissal was unlawful, ruling that he was fired because of comments linked to his anti-Zionist views. The Employment Appeal Tribunal said the university’s decision amounted to direct discrimination and that the dismissal was unfair and wrongful. Al Jazeera reported that the ruling confirms anti-Zionism is a legally protected belief in the United Kingdom.

Miller, a professor of political sociology at Bristol from 2018 until his dismissal in October 2021, had challenged the university over unfair dismissal, breach of contract and discrimination or victimisation on grounds of religion or belief. In earlier proceedings, the tribunal found that his comments were lawful and did not amount to anti-Semitism or threats of violence. The university appealed, but the latest ruling backed the earlier finding.

According to Al Jazeera, Miller said the decision was a victory for people in Britain who oppose Zionism and could make it harder for employers to punish workers over anti-Zionist speech. He said the case had discouraged other academics from speaking openly. A University of Bristol spokesperson said the institution was disappointed and remained committed to protecting free speech within its rules.

The case is significant because it touches on the contested line between anti-Zionism and anti-Semitism in UK law and public debate. It may also be seen as relevant to universities and other employers dealing with disputes over political expression on campus and in the workplace.