Recent events have dramatically highlighted the complex challenges academic institutions face in balancing fundamental freedoms with community welfare and institutional integrity. The tumultuous aftermath of October 7, 2023, has transformed campuses worldwide into crucibles where principles of free expression collide with concerns for student safety, institutional stability, and the preservation of learning environments which foster open inquiry and debate.

This international conference aims to examine the multifaceted challenges of protecting and regulating speech in academic settings, with particular attention to the distinct yet interconnected experiences of institutions around the world. It hopes to foster constructive dialogue about these pressing challenges while advancing our understanding of how academic institutions can uphold both free expression and inclusive community values in increasingly complex times. We seek contributions that analyze the theoretical foundations, practical implications, and potential solutions for managing these competing interests.