Free Speech at Risk in Universities
The Censorship Power Rankings
What can you actually talk about over coffee? According to the
2026 College Free Speech Rankings, here is the breakdown of what students find nearly impossible to discuss versus the topics that are still "safe."
Top 10 Most Taboo Topics These are the topics where students feel the most pressure to stay silent or face social/academic blow back.
- The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (53%)
- Abortion (46%)
- The 2024 Presidential Election (42%)
- Transgender Rights (41%)
- Racial Inequality (34%)
- Gun Control (33%)
- Immigration (33%)
- Religion (32%)
- Gay Rights (31%)
- Sexual Assault (30%)
Least Controversial Topics Surprisingly, these global and legal issues are currently the easiest to discuss without fear.
- China (12%)
- The Supreme Court (13%)
- Climate Change (14%)
- Crime (14%)
- Economic Inequality (20%)