The University has become a founding member of the Defence Universities Alliance (DUA), a partnership between UK universities, the Ministry of Defence and industry that aims to increase defence-related research, skills development and career pathways. While the University has highlighted opportunities for research collaboration, innovation and employment, many students, staff and Students' Unions across the UK have raised concerns about the wider implications of closer institutional links with the defence sector.  

 
1. Students were not meaningfully consulted 
Membership of the DUA represents a significant strategic decision about the University's future direction.  

 
2. Risk to academic independence 
Universities should remain places where knowledge is pursued independently and where academic freedom is protected. 

 
3. Ethical concerns around militarisation 
Many students believe universities should focus on addressing social, environmental and humanitarian challenges. Campaign groups, academics and student activists have argued that expanding defence partnerships risks contributing to the wider militarisation of higher education and may conflict with values around peacebuilding, social justice and global responsibility. Please see CAAT-Weaponising-Universities-WEB.pdf for more information. 

 
4. Reputational and community impacts 
Students come from diverse national, cultural and political backgrounds. For some, particularly those affected by conflict and war, closer institutional alignment with defence organisations may create discomfort and raise concerns about whether the University remains an inclusive environment for all members of its community. 
 

5. A lack of transparency 
 
We believe that membership of the Defence Universities Alliance will not create pathways or opportunities for students that outweigh the risks of undermining principles of academic independence, transparency and ethical responsibility. 

We would like the University to withdraw from the Alliance and advocate for students to have a meaningful voice in any future decisions relating to defence-sector partnerships.