Department Commitment
We are committed to fostering an inclusive culture which promotes equality, values diversity and maintains a working, learning and social environment in which the rights and dignity of all members of the Department community are respected. Our department Code of Conduct sets out standards of behaviour and good practice expected from our community.
Staff and Student Support
DPIR operates under the University of Oxford’s Policy and Procedure on Harassment, which also contains information and advice on seeking support for a matter relating to harassment. You can also refer to the Harassment Procedure flowchart for University Staff [pdf] and Harassment Procedure flowchart for Students [pdf].
University Harassment Advisers: There are approximately 490 Harassment Advisors across departments and faculties within the University. The University recommends that you discuss the situation with a Harassment Advisor before taking any other steps in response to the alleged harassment. Talking through the events and your feelings with the advisor will help you decide on the best way to deal with the behaviour and will clarify the options available to you.
We have designated Department Harassment Advisors who provide confidential advice and guidance to staff and students experiencing harassment, bullying, or other inappropriate behaviour.
| Lois McNay | Paul Billingham | |
| Role: Professor in Politics | Role: Professor of Political Theory | |
| Contact: lois.mcnay@some.ox.ac.uk | Contact: paul.billingham@politics.ox.ac.uk | |
| Tania Boyt | Agnieszka Swiejkowska | |
| Role: Head of Administration and Finance | Role: Research Manager | |
| Contact: tania.boyt@politics.ox.ac.uk | Contact: Agnieszka.swiejkowska@politics.ox.ac.uk |
If you are unsure whom to contact or prefer to speak with someone outside the department, please reach out to the central Harassment Support Team at harassment.line@admin.ox.ac.uk
If you have experienced or observed behaviour that violates our standards of conduct, we encourage you to complete the Code of Conduct Survey to report your concerns. This survey is a confidential tool designed to help us identify and address issues within our community. Other sources of support include, for students, the Oxford SU Student Advice Service and Sexual Harassment and Violence Support Service. Together, we can maintain a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Sexual Harassment
Staff: Strengthening Sexual Harassment Prevention: In line with the Worker Protection Act 2023 (effective October 2024), the University has a legal duty to take proactive steps to prevent sexual harassment of staff. As part of this, required training has been introduced for all employees.
The training also supports compliance with the Office for Students’ Condition E6 (effective 1 August 2025), which requires effective action to prevent and respond to harassment affecting students.
Students (New and Returning): The University of Oxford is committed to fostering a safe environment in which all students can thrive. Harassment and sexual misconduct in any form are not tolerated here.
All students are encouraged to review and familiarise themselves with the, Supporting Students at Oxford: Preventing and Responding to Harassment and Sexual Misconduct which includes updates effective from 1 August 2025 and Understanding Harassment and Sexual Misconduct: What you need to know.
Additionally, students on all award-bearing courses are required to complete the Consent for Students online training. This course aims to prevent harassment and sexual misconduct within our student community and is designed to enhance understanding of consent and harassment.
Further information
These efforts align with the University’s People Strategy, EDI Strategic Plan, and Harassment Policy promoting a respectful, inclusive environment for all staff, students, visitors, and contractors
You can find out more information on the department's policies and procedures page or the University’s webpages on Bullying & Harassment.