‘Racist’ Cambridge academic fully cleared of wrongdoing by uni in free speech case

Dr Nathan Cofnas, a Research Fellow at the University of Cambridge has been fully cleared of wrongdoing, following an investigation into a claim he made that black people would “disappear” from high-profile positions in a meritocracy. 

Cofnas, a Philosophy researcher and fellow at Emmanuel College, made a series of statements suggesting that in a “true meritocracy”, black people would “disappear from almost all high-profile positions outside of sports and entertainment.”  

He further claimed that “talent is not equally distributed across groups” and described diversity, equity, and inclusion policies as “the devil” and a “war on nature”. 

The institution commissioned an external legal review of Cofnas’ comments to determine whether the university’s code of conduct or equality policies had been breached.

The remarks prompted widespread criticism across the university. 58 students and staff lodged formal complaints, while a further 1,200 people signed a petition calling for his dismissal. Emmanuel College’s Junior Common Room denounced his views as “racist”, while one student went as far as to say that Cofnas has “blood on his hands”. 

The institution commissioned an external legal review of Cofnas’ comments to determine whether the university’s code of conduct or equality policies had been breached.  

The independent review found no breach of university policy and determined that, while the remarks may have been offensive to many, they fell within lawful free speech. 

A Cambridge statement claimed that they are “committed to addressing racism, discrimination and harassment”, but “must secure and promote freedom of speech and provide an environment for open and sometimes robust debate.”  

However, the university also recognised: “This can be a difficult path to navigate, particularly when arguments, while remaining within the law, cause deep offence.” 

He is now pursuing legal action, arguing that the decision to sever his affiliation amounted to unlawful discrimination on the basis of philosophical belief

During the investigation period, Cofnas was relieved of his teaching duties. He has not returned to teaching since his three-year fellowship ended. 

He is now pursuing legal action, arguing that the decision to sever his affiliation amounted to unlawful discrimination on the basis of philosophical belief. 

The case has reignited debate over the balance between free speech and equality duties within higher education. Under the new legal framework, universities may no longer impose sanctions on academics solely on the basis that their views cause offence.