The Oxford Union has long been known for inviting speakers who spark debate and controversy.

With Tommy Robinson set to visit the city on Thursday, May 28 to engage students in discussion, we examine some of the most debated figures to address the world’s renowned private students’ society.

Kathleen Stock sparked outrage among Oxford University’s LGBT society and student union in 2023, with opponents accusing her of transphobia.

The Oxford Union provided support services for students who attended Ms Stock’s address.

Charlie Kirk established Turning Point (Image: Jeffrey Phelps/AP)

Approximately 100 activists gathered on St Michael’s Street to demonstrate against the professor’s appearance in Oxford.

Law student Sarah Ourednickova commented at the time that she did not wish to provide a platform for someone accused of transphobia.

However, Jessica Evans, aged 60, offered a different perspective, stating that meaningful debate becomes impossible when certain voices are silenced.

Former Israeli prime minister Ehud Olmert’s appearance in November 2025 was interrupted by roughly 60 pro-Palestinian demonstrators representing various Oxford-based organisations.

Demonstrators obstructed the entrance to the union building while chanting about genocide and raised their hands painted red in the air.

Tommy Robinson (Image: PA)

One demonstrator informed Oxford Student that they had come to oppose injustice, calling it disgraceful that Olmert had received an invitation from the Oxford Union and expressing that Palestine deserved freedom.

The late Charlie Kirk, a prominent right-wing activist and steadfast supporter of Donald Trump, spoke at the Oxford Union in May 2025.

Groups monitoring hate speech frequently characterised his language as divisive, racist, xenophobic and extreme.

Mr Kirk would later be fatally shot during another university debate event in the United States.

The union notably welcomed O.J. Simpson in 1996 following his acquittal, a highly contentious invitation given the worldwide focus on his murder trial.

The occasion also drew criticism regarding unauthorised recordings sold to broadcasters, with his tour overseen by Max Clifford.

Malcolm X (Image: AP/Wiki)

Malcolm X also addressed the Oxford Union in 1964, and his address on extremism is frequently referenced as one of the society’s most controversial historical speeches, confronting racial politics in both Britain and America while provoking substantial discussion at the time.

The Oxford Union has previously stated that disagreement is fundamental to its dedication to preserving free expression.

As such, the organisation remains committed to welcoming speakers with views that may attract criticism, not to promote those perspectives but to challenge them through open dialogue.

Extending a platform to a speaker does not signify endorsement of their positions—it permits those perspectives to be scrutinised and held responsible by drawing on the society’s tradition of vigorous discussion and disagreement.