A UK employment appeals tribunal has ruled that Professor David Miller was unlawfully dismissed by the University of Bristol over his anti-Zionist views, confirming that anti-Zionism is a legally protected philosophical belief under the Equality Act.
The tribunal found Miller was fired in 2021 because he expressed protected beliefs, making his dismissal unlawful, discriminatory, unfair, and wrongful. It upheld an earlier ruling that his comments were lawful, not antisemitic, and did not incite violence.
Miller said the judgment is a victory for anyone in Britain who opposes Zionism, arguing it will make it far harder for employers to discipline or dismiss people for holding anti-Zionist views. He also said his case had created a chilling effect on academic free speech and hopes the ruling will encourage others to speak out.
The University of Bristol said it was disappointed with the decision but remains committed to protecting free speech within its codes of conduct. The decision is likely to have significant implications for workplaces across Britain, including cases involving disciplinary action over speech on Palestine.
