For a Germany that is Open to the World
Freedom of expression, artistic freedom, freedom of the press and academic freedom are among the fundamental and inalienable rights granted and protected by our Basic Law. Osnabrück University (UOS) emphasizes the special responsibility associated with these fundamental rights in the opening article of its constitution: Osnabrück University "fulfils its tasks in freedom, within the framework of its self-administration and obligation towards human rights, the environment and the peaceful and civil development of humanity". This obligation applies to all areas of research and teaching – and to every member of our university.
Today more than ever, it is clear that this commitment is not always easy to implement in concrete situations. The current crises seem to be mutually reinforcing each other and expanding into an almost unmanageable polycrisis. One expression of the feeling of powerlessness that often results from this is the increasing political polarization in Germany. Universities, as academic institutions with a fact-based exchange as the basis of any discourse, are also becoming the focus of anti-scientific and populist – especially right-wing populist – disputes. In times of fake news and politically provoked hostility towards science, factual orientation and reason become the enemy.
Examples of anti-science patterns include attempts to restrict scientific topics or socially defame researchers, often via social media. We must all resolutely oppose anti-scientific tendencies! Hostility towards science must be exposed as such and clearly named as such.
As a vibrant university, we should also look inwards. Universities are diverse. And they are not ideal worlds. Different people with different opinions and attitudes come together on campus. Social conflict structures also have an impact here and it is important that we uncover these, make the (university) public aware of them and confront them together with tolerance and respect, but also take clear action against discriminatory positions and behavior that disregard human rights. Together with our students, we want to create spaces for discourse that are free of repression and ensure that everyone at our university feels safe and seen. Accordingly, we do not allow any room for anti-Semitism, discrimination, hate speech, racism or sexism on campus and therefore no room for endangering individual members and groups! UOS fulfills this responsibility by adopting the anti-discrimination guideline, among other things. With the policy, Osnabrück University emphatically emphasizes that it does not tolerate discriminatory and violent behavior.
Therefore our request: Conduct conversations mindfully and do not hold staff and students who have personal connections to crisis regions liable for the political situation on the ground! People who have a special connection to a region due to their nationality, religion or origin do not represent entire (population) groups or the attitude of governments. Do not force anyone to take a stand on behalf of governments, religions or groups to which they ascribe an affiliation. Some people want to talk and exchange views – others do not. Both must be respected equally.
Dear students, make this university yours. We are more than just a collection of buildings, lecture halls and laboratories. Use Osnabrück University as a space for your personal development and as a place where you can meet people who disagree with you. Be able to withstand controversy and get involved – bring heated arguments back to factual arguments and admit when conflicts cannot be resolved due to different levels of information or values. The right to freedom of expression, artistic freedom, freedom of the press and academic freedom should ensure that you feel seen and safe at our university. Let us not lose sight of these basic principles of coexistence and work together to ensure that people on our campus treat each other with respect – regardless of their origin or faith.
Consulting options
The Presidential Board and the Student Government of Osnabrück University are working together to eliminate discriminatory structures. If you have been affected by violence and intolerant behavior, you can report your incidents here safely and anonymously, regardless of whether you are directly or indirectly involved. Every report is relevant and will be taken seriously!
Student Government contact form
Further contact points
Psychosocial Counseling Center
The Psychosocial Counseling Center for Students (PSB) of the Osnabrück Student Services is an open service that is available to all students of Osnabrück University. Counseling sessions are strictly confidential and free of charge.
Equal Opportunities Office
Anti-discrimination counseling
Annkatrin Kalas M.A. | Equal Opportunities Officer
annkatrin.kalas@uni-osnabrueck.de
Phone: +49 541 969 4520
International Office
Anna Julia Toll | Advice for international students, doctoral candidates and visiting academics
anna-julia.toll@uni-osnabrueck.de
Tel.: +49 541 969 4106
External initial advisors
In addition to the advisors at the university, there is also the option of seeking external advice:
profamilia
Dipl. Sozial Education Antonius Geers
osnabrueck@profamilia.de