UCL Socialist Students
2025 at University College London (UCL) began with scandal. Video evidence showed Richard Mole – who has since stepped down as director of the School of Slavonic and Eastern European Studies (SSEES) – harassing a student attending a demonstration.
In the video, Mole stated: “I don’t wear a mask, because I’m not a coward” – in reference to the student’s hijab – and “no man would ever touch you”.
What is just as horrific as these comments is how UCL bosses shield Mole from accountability, allowing him to continue working as a professor and lecturer. Mole stepping down as SSEES director may only be temporary. UCL is brushing this incident under the carpet, and hoping everyone will forget.
Such actions reveal how UCL prioritises its reputation over its students. UCL views students as commodities, whose wellbeing can be compromised.
It is not just the actions of Richard Mole, who must be held accountable, but UCL itself. That is why Socialist Students calls for an elected body of trade unionists and students to openly investigate incidents of misconduct, such as this.
When a staff member harasses students, and the university protects that staff member, the students and staff lose confidence in the university to safeguard their wellbeing. Less people come forward to report incidents of abuse and harassment, allowing more perpetrators to continue their heinous acts.
If you want this to change, support our campaign for accountability on campus.
