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Melanie Dawes: Regulating Harm
27 January @ 5.30pm
About Melanie Dawes: Regulating Harm
Digital platforms now shape everything from childhood social interaction to democracy, with fears growing that not enough is being done to protect vulnerable users from harmful online content.
The UK government’s Online Safety Act promises to tackle illegal and harmful content, including child sexual exploitation and abuse, terrorism, and suicide and self-harm.
But critics warn of sweeping state powers, vague definitions, and unintended consequences for privacy, free speech, and innovation – especially as AI supercharges both risks and regulation.
Dame Melanie Dawes is the Chief Executive of the media regulator Ofcom, and will explore the growing role of the public sector in keeping users safe online, the legal and ethical challenges this presents, and what’s at stake as we redraw the boundaries of digital freedom.
Tickets
Please see important booking information below.
Booking information
Ticket prices:
From £10.00
A fee of £1.50 per transaction applies to bookings for this event across all channels – website, phone and in-person bookings at the Box Office. The fee is waived for Oxford Playhouse members.
Dates & times:
Tuesday 27 January 2026 at 5.30pm
Doors open at 5.00pm
Running time:
1 hour, without an interval
Good to know:
Please be aware that, as entry may be limited once the event begins, it is advised to arrive between 5.00pm and 5.30pm.
