Oxford University has been accused of putting women’s safety at risk by withholding information about persistent sexual harassment allegations against a senior professor, Times UK reports. The university’s central administration allegedly refused to share details of an internal investigation into Professor Miles Hewstone with New College or professional academic bodies, insisting the matter was confidential. Critics say the secrecy created a “wall of silence” that allowed the professor to continue benefiting from his Oxford affiliation despite serious allegations.
Miles Hewstone, 69, an internationally renowned social psychology professor, resigned from his full-time posts at Oxford and New College in April 2019 while under investigation over alleged harassment. Despite stepping down, his 18-year tenure entitled him to become an emeritus professor and an emeritus fellow, allowing him to continue using university facilities and present himself as an Oxford academic. He later lectured internationally, including at a private university in India, before relinquishing his emeritus titles in November last year after media inquiries.
The allegations against Hewstone include abuse of power, inappropriate sexual advances, unwanted touching, and favouritism, according to women who spoke to Times UK. Several women described experiences spanning three decades. One alleged she barricaded herself in a hotel room after resisting his advances at an overseas conference, while another claimed he dropped his trousers. A third described him joking about his sexual performance despite his age. These testimonies have intensified calls for transparency and accountability at Oxford, with critics arguing that the university’s handling of the case has enabled potential repeat offenders to continue operating unchecked.
Oxford’s response to concerns raised by academic bodies further deepened the controversy. In 2019, the British Academy, the European Association of Social Psychology (EASP), and the Society of Australasian Social Psychologists wrote to Oxford requesting confirmation of whether complaints were received, whether an investigation was conducted, and what the outcome was. The organisations said they had information suggesting Hewstone had abused his position of power in harassing students and young scholars, and warned that his presence at conferences could compromise safety and inclusion. Oxford replied that the case was confidential and advised the organisations to raise concerns directly with Hewstone.
The case has also highlighted the limitations of Oxford’s internal systems. New College leaders were reportedly surprised by Hewstone’s resignation but were rebuffed when seeking more information. One Oxford don described the situation as a “very tight wall of silence.” Critics argue that Oxford’s collegiate structure and outdated statutes make accountability difficult and that the university has been slower than other institutions to take harassment seriously. A group of 20 academics has submitted a motion to the university’s governing body, expressing concern about decisions being made behind closed doors and calling for greater transparency in misconduct cases.
Oxford has defended its approach, stating that sexual harassment has no place at the university and that it applies robust procedures to address concerns. The university also said it prioritises support for those affected and rejects any suggestion that it tolerates harassment or puts reputation before safety. Nevertheless, the controversy has exposed a gap in the university’s ability to manage allegations once staff resign, leaving victims feeling unprotected and uncertain whether future institutions or organisations will be informed. The case has renewed demands for policies that require investigations to continue even after accused staff leave, ensuring that misconduct cannot be concealed by resignation.
