Operating Culture

Community Spirit

Our approach is human-oriented, and we see people as unique, active, and learning individuals. We appreciate each other and work together toward jointly agreed objectives. We do what we have jointly agreed upon. We value the work done, and we do not take the credit for other people's work. Each person is responsible for the promotion of community spirit and the development of a good working and studying atmosphere.

Openness and Transparency

We build an open and transparent operating culture. We are open, genuine, and honest in our activities. We encounter, acknowledge, and accept the things that are difficult and painful as well. Our operating culture is interactive and participatory. In joint development projects, we draw up a participation plan during the planning of the project and communicate on the implementation of the plan.

Culture of Intervention

We do not accept any form of sexual or other type of harassment, discrimination, racism, bullying, or any other form of inappropriate behavior. Inappropriate behavior can manifest as words, actions, or attitudes. Each member of the university community, regardless of their position, has the right and the obligation to intervene rapidly and effectively in the event of inappropriate behavior. Each person has the right to expect that any inappropriate behavior they are subjected to is intervened with. Our model of early intervention and support and the included model for addressing inappropriate behavior and harassment provide instructions for such situations. The models comprise separate instructions for the students and personnel.

Definitions

Inappropriate behavior is any form of behavior or action toward another person in the course of work or studies that is in breach of law, accepted principles of morality, or personal work obligations. It is often systematic and continuous but may also consist of a single incident. Any member of the university community may be the subject of inappropriate behavior.

Harassment refers to a situation where a person systematically, repeatedly, and over an extended period engages in behavior that is oppressive, insulting, or repressive toward another person, impacting their health. The actor may be a colleague, a fellow student, employee, or a person outside of the community, such as a customer. The situation may also involve the misuse of the right to supervise work. Harassment consists of a chain of events, during which the targeted person is placed in a situation where they cannot defend themselves or are subjected to other negative consequences. Harassment is not the only form of inappropriate behavior. Harassment is commonly referred to as bullying.

Original source: The Centre for Occupational Safety

How should I act?

General instructions

I will behave in an appropriate manner toward everyone. I will behave such that other people do not feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or threatened, and I will avoid insulting or inappropriate behavior.

I will listen to others and foster open discussion and build trust through my actions.

I accept that we all occasionally make mistakes and contribute to a culture of mutual learning for my part.

I will also look after the physical environment, i.e., ensure a clean a safe environment in a proactive manner.

I will provide constructive feedback and accept feedback from others, adjusting my actions where necessary.

Defining inappropriate behavior can be difficult. One’s personal feelings are the most important measure. If I feel that someone's behavior is distressing or a situation is bothering me, I should bring it up.

I will notify any inappropriate behavior I experience or observe to