University of Birmingham

Birmingham, United Kingdom

A public research university located in Birmingham, UK, known for its research in various fields including microbiology.

CCI Score

7.24

-0.01% April 18

Latest Event

University of Birmingham Settles Pay Spine Dispute with UNISON

Following a prolonged dispute over the unilateral imposition of pay spine reforms without adequate staff consultation, the University of Birmingham agreed to a settlement with UNISON. The settlement secured key improvements in working conditions, including better pay scales, enhanced sick pay, and negotiated terms, marking a significant win for labor rights.

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OBJECTOR

University of Birmingham is currently rated as an Objector.

0 to +9 CCI Score

These companies deliberately avoid direct involvement with authoritarian practices. While they do not actively challenge oppressive regimes, they maintain a neutral stance to ensure they are not complicit in supporting such systems.

Latest Events

JUL

31

2024

University of Birmingham Settles Pay Spine Dispute with UNISON
55.85

Following a prolonged dispute over the unilateral imposition of pay spine reforms without adequate staff consultation, the University of Birmingham agreed to a settlement with UNISON. The settlement secured key improvements in working conditions, including better pay scales, enhanced sick pay, and negotiated terms, marking a significant win for labor rights.
+60

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

April 5

The settlement, forced by collective union action and persistent demands for fair labor conditions, represents a corrective measure to previous autocratic practices. By negotiating improved working conditions, the University demonstrated responsiveness to labor rights demands, and while the initial imposition of reforms was problematic, the concession is a progressive step that benefits marginalized staff.

UNISON settles dispute with University of Birmingham, winning key improvements on conditions
SEP

20

2023

University of Birmingham Responds to Staff Strike Dispute
-34.16

The University of Birmingham defended its new pay reform, claiming that most support the changes, while labeling union-led strike actions as 'deeply disappointing'. The institution stated that the majority of staff had accepted the new arrangements, despite union allegations of a lack of proper negotiation and engagement with third-party mediators.
-40

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

April 5

The university's handling of the industrial action—with its refusal to engage meaningfully with union representatives and its dismissal of worker concerns—reflects a problematic approach to labor relations. This response undermines workers' rights and fair labor practices, aligning with authoritarian management methods rather than fostering equitable dialogue.

University of Birmingham hits back at 'disappointing' strikes and says 'most staff happy with deal'
AUG

17

2023

Contested Labor Contract Changes Spark Strike at University of Birmingham
-59.22

On August 17, 2023, support staff represented by UNISON went on strike in response to the University of Birmingham's unilateral imposition of changes to support staff contracts and poor negotiation practices, which critics argue undermine fair labor rights and attempt to marginalize union participation.
-70

Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices

April 5

The University of Birmingham's decision to force through contract changes without proper negotiations has been met with widespread criticism from union representatives and labor advocates. This heavy-handed management approach undermines workers' rights and is indicative of authoritarian-style labor practices. Such actions are seen as anti-union and exploitative, leading to a significant negative score under labor relations and human rights practices.

Solidarity with UNISON support staff – on strike at UoB today
JUN

13

2023

University Launches CEDAR to Combat Authoritarianism
66.48

The University of Birmingham has established the Centre for Elections, Democracy, Accountability and Representation (CEDAR) to study democratic backsliding and develop strategies to protect civil liberties and political rights. The initiative emphasizes research and comparative analysis to address the factors driving authoritarian trends.
+80

Public and Political Behavior

April 5

By launching CEDAR, the University of Birmingham is taking a significant step towards fostering research, dialogue, and actionable strategies to counteract democratic backsliding and authoritarian trends. This proactive effort supports anti-authoritarian and progressive values, reinforcing the role of academic institutions in safeguarding civil liberties and promoting accountability.

The rise of authoritarianism is misunderstood – and it matters