Discrimination
Discrimination is defined as any action or statement intended to treat a person unequally or demean them – particularly on the basis of their gender or gender identity, physical or mental disability, age, ethnic background (e.g. language, nationality, skin color, migration experience, religion), social origin or status, or sexual orientation. Discrimination can manifest in explicit boundary violations and verbal assaults, as well as in more subtle forms, such as demeaning remarks or exclusion mechanisms. Discriminatory behavior includes sexual harassment, sexism, racism, and abuse of power.
The University of Bern does not tolerate any form of discrimination and is committed to the protection of personal integrity. All members of the University of Bern have the right to be treated in a way that respects their dignity and personal integrity. If you are affected by or witness discrimination, you can report it confidentially at any time.
Here you will find information and the procedure for submitting reports of Personal Integrity breaches, in particular cases of discrimination, for sudents and staff.
Disability
There is a point of contact for support and advice for intermediate staff with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Initial information on accessibility, disadvantage compensation and support options can be viewed individually.
Contact: Seraina Wepfer, Office for Equal Opportunities, seraina.wepfer@unibe.ch
Hate speech
“Hate speech” is an overarching term for a manner of expressing opinions that denigrate, insult or threaten individuals or groups of people or that incite violence against these individuals or groups. The University of Bern offers an online reporting form as well as a direct contact point (Media Office) for members of the University who are affected by hate speech.
In consultation with the person concerned, the Media Office coordinates support measures in collaboration with the Legal Services Office, the Office for Equal Opportunities and the Safety Office.
Contact: Gaia Fortunato, Office for Equal Opportunities, gaia.fortunato@unibe.ch
LGBTIQ+
LGBTIQ+ University members receive support in cases of discrimination or in challenging situations. Information on the offers of the University of Bern is available as well as support in coming-out processes.
Members of the University who are in a transition process can administratively change their first name and gender entry as far as legally possible and in accordance with the University systems. An application can be submitted to the office below.
Contact: Gaia Fortunato, Office for Equal Opportunities, gaia.fortunato@unibe.ch
Bullying
Bullying is a specific form of violation of personal integrity. According to a definition used by the Federal Supreme Court, bullying is systematic, hostile behavior that lasts for an extended period of time and is intended to isolate, marginalize or even remove a person from their workplace. It is important to note that not everything that is suspected to be bullying in a non-professional sense actually constitutes bullying in a legal sense; only qualified, specific types of behavior count as being bullying.
As a general rule, it is recommended that those affected first seek a discussion with their line manager. If this does not seem appropriate for the person concerned on the basis of the circumstances, the matter will be referred to the next higher authority. The matter is also referred to the HR department. The Universities of Bern Counselling Centre offers free support if additional psychological help or if only psychological help is required.
Racism
The University strives for a respectful, inclusive and non-discriminatory study and working environment and does not tolerate racism. Employees who experience or observe racist discrimination have the opportunity to report incidents confidentially and receive advice. Advisory support is also offered in the event of uncertainty as to whether a situation can be classified as racist.
Contact: Gina Vega, Office for Equal Opportunities, gina.vega@unibe.ch
Sexual harassment / sexism
Anyone who experiences, observes or becomes aware of an incident of sexual harassment or sexism can contact the offices listed below for advice and support. This also applies in the event that someone within the University of Bern is accused of sexual harassment or sexism.
To the points of contact at the University of Bern: https://www.respekt.unibe.ch/index_eng.html
Universities of Bern Counselling Centre: Mirjam Zeiter, federally recognized psychotherapist, mirjam.zeiter@be.ch
Contact persons within the University of Bern
- Irene Strobel, Head of Human Resources Office: Advice on employee-related matters
- Claudia Willen, Head of the Office for Equal Opportunities: Prevention and advice on procedures
- Christoph Pappa, Director Legal Services Office: Information on the legal framework
Disruptive behavior, stalking, harassment, threat
In the event of anonymous harassment, threats, disruptive behavior or stalking at the University of Bern, the Safety Office offers a supporting initial assessment and advice. In acute emergencies, call the emergency number 117 and then contact the Safety Office.
Contact: Safety Office, sicherheit@unibe.ch
Work-life-balance
Members of the University who feel discriminated against due to work-life balance challenges and require support can contact the Office for Equal Opportunities. Other University offices will be involved in consultation with those seeking advice. All advisory sessions are in the strictest confidence.
Contact: Sebastian Dällenbach, Office for Equal Opportunities, sebastian.daellenbach@unibe.ch