Scottish University hosts controversial campaign group
By Ryan Quinn
A Scottish University has come under fire from campaigners and students after hosting an event with a group that campaigns against “wrongful” rape convictions.
Justice for Innocent Men Scotland (JIMS) representative, Marsha Sturgeon, was invited to speak to criminology students by lecturer Stuart Waiton, as part of a module where students are asked to critique the justice system.
However the lecture has been criticized by students and campaigners, with concerns raised over past comments made by the group, they claimed that “feminist lobbying” is actively influencing the policing and prosecution of sexual offences.
Students studying in university library - Getty Images
Rafaela May, a psychology with forensic science student at the university said: “It is quite embarrassing and disappointing to see this kind of thing happen in 2025. I honestly think this totally dismisses the progress made in recognising and addressing real issues like gender-based violence and discrimination.
“I believe the university should make its values clear; that it supports equality, respect and evidence-based discussion. I do not want Abertay to silence anyone, but it should stand for both academic freedom and social responsibility.”
Ellie Wilson, a social media influencer and victim rights campaigner, said: “I am utterly appalled that Abertay University think it’s appropriate to invite an extremist group who have a proven track record of harassing survivors on campus to spread their hateful and inaccurate message.
“Students are more likely than any other sector of the population to experience sexual violence, and for the university to platform a group that blames victims is deeply irresponsible.”
An empty courtroom before proceedings start - Getty Images
A spokesperson for Abertay University said: “The speaker session was not approved by the senior management team and the group’s views do not reflect those of Abertay University.
“The University is fully committed to safeguarding our staff and students and supporting anyone affected by gender-based violence. We believe it is vital that our students are given opportunities to engage with challenging or controversial views and that we have a responsibility to equip them with the academic and critical thinking skillsets required to confront difficult issues to drive social and political change.
“We recognise that this matter has caused concern, and we will be reviewing our speaker approval processes going forward.”
Justice for Innocent Men Scotland deny these allegations. A spokesperson said: “Much of it is false, exaggerated or deliberately misleading, and it’s disappointing to see complex issues reduced to online noise.
“JIMS is a grassroots organisation representing families and individuals who have suffered from false allegations, wrongful convictions and institutional failures within the Scottish justice system.
“Our aim is to expose systemic flaws, promote transparency and restore the right to a fair trial. Everything we do is rooted in truth, evidence and fact.”
University lecture hall with students attending - Unsplash
When pushed on whether campaigning for the overturn of convictions they believe to be wrongful, could lead to potential victims being re-traumatised they said:
“We have enormous sympathy for anyone who has genuinely suffered sexual violence, a lot of our members are survivors themselves, and nothing we do undermines that. Challenging unsafe convictions and exposing procedural failings does not retraumatise genuine victims – it protects everyone by demanding as justice system based on evidence, not presumption.”
“Stuart Waiton encouraged frank debate on the subject and for students to ask uncomfortable questions. The conversation was enjoyed by all and found to be respectful by all that attended.
“Abertay University’s own statement makes clear that students are expected to engage with ‘challenging or controversial views’ and to develop the critical-thinking skills required to confront complex issues.
“If Abertay chooses to review its internal speaker process, that’s an administrative matter, not a reflection on the content of our presentation.”