The Cambridge Union is the oldest debating society in the world, as well as the largest student society in Cambridge. It remains one of the highest-ranking competitive debating chambers worldwide, and hosts a range of speakers and topical debates each term. Since 1815 the Union has been committed to the principles of free speech and of fair, open, and honest debate. Founded at a time when the university authorities attempted to restrict these freedoms, the Union remains the centre of controversial and serious debate within the University of Cambridge.