University of Aberdeen statement on Sultan of Brunei

Please see below a statement that has been sent to students and staff this morning from George Boyne, University of Aberdeen Principal. Media are free to consider this as the University’s position statement on the matter.  Please note there will be no further statements or interviews.

Dear students and staff,

As I am sure you will be aware there has been an international controversy since the Sultan of Brunei, in his role as Head of State, introduced severely punitive anti-LGBT laws.

The Sultan was awarded an honorary degree by our University in 1995. It was given at a time when the University had operated a successful exchange programme with its counterpart in Brunei, and when the Sultan had encouraged links between Brunei and Aberdeen due to his interest in our geology and petroleum engineering research. In light of recent developments, the University undertook a review of how this award now fits with our values.

Today I can inform you that the honorary degree has been revoked following a vote by Senate, our academic body, which approved a recommendation from our Honorary Degrees Committee. Our internal process also included an opportunity for the Sultan to respond to the recommendation. The response from the Sultan was considered by the Senate and the Honorary Degrees Committee.

While it is deeply regrettable to be in this position, which is unprecedented for the University of Aberdeen, I fully support the decision. The University of Aberdeen is proud of our foundational purpose of being open to all and dedicated to the pursuit of truth in the service of others. The introduction by the Sultan of the new Penal Code is contrary to our strong commitment to the value of diversity and inclusion.

George

Principal and Vice-Chancellor