Diversity at the University of Münster
The University of Münster is committed to enacting a proactive diversity policy. The recognition of disciplinary cultures and respect for personal individuality play a decisive role in university operations, research activities and student life. The University of Münster not only supports the unique characteristics, diverse talents and experiences of its employees and students, but also recognises the enrichment and opportunity that diversity brings in all its dimensions. Our understanding of diversity is based on recognising the heterogeneous, multidimensional differences between people along social categories, as well as their interconnection in intersectional, interlocking structures of inequality and discrimination. Against this backdrop, the University strives to develop approaches for recognising and promoting diversity. Examining systemic and institutionalised discrimination, existing power structures and their attendant privileges in a (self-)critical fashion are just as important as creating spaces of discourse which can tap the potential of diversity for shared learning and growth. Accordingly, promoting diversity at the University of Münster is considered a cross-sectional task that is organisationally relevant to all areas of the University.
Mission Statement on Diversity
In 2020 the University Senate and Rectorate issued the joint Mission Statement on Diversity “Living.Knowledge.Diversity” which firmly established and further advances the University’s position on diversity in research, teaching and transfer. The University of Münster strongly encourages all members of the University to jointly implement the outlined objectives of the mission statement in everyday working life.
© Stifterverband Diversity Strategy of the University Münster
With its Diversity Strategy, the University of Münster interconnects existing diversity measures and sub-processes for the first time and integrates them into an overarching strategic concept. These measures include the Gender Equality Framework Plan, the faculty-level equal opportunity plans, the Internationalisation Strategy, the Agreement on Respectful Behaviour, and the target agreements for the “family-friendly university” and “Total-E-Quality” audits. The aim is to initiate a comprehensive and sustainable diversity process throughout the entire University. To this end, the Diversity Strategy offers the central and decentralised facilities (faculties, research centres, Clusters of Excellence, organisational units and departments) of the University of Münster a basis of orientation, outlining strategic goals in defined fields of action.
Diversity Charter
By signing the Diversity Charter, the University of Münster pledged to recognise diversity within and outside the University, to grasp the potential it holds as a source of opportunity and enrichment, and to promote a campus culture characterised by mutual respect and appreciation.
© Charta der Vielfalt Code of Conduct
University culture is based on conducting ourselves in a legal and respectful manner which aligns with our shared values. The Code of Conduct of the University of Münster summarises how we want to treat one another and defines the values and orientations, to which we are committed.
Senate Committee for Diversity
The Senate Committee for Diversity was established to enhance the University’s profile in the area of diversity. It supports the implementation of measures related to the Stifterverband’s “Shaping Diversity” audit, supervises diversity-related monitoring processes (e.g. the “Shaping Diversity” audit and the University’s internal ‘Diversity Climate Survey’) and provides feedback on diversity-related measures.
Antisemitism representative
On 29 June 2023, the Rectorate established the position of an antisemitism officer at the University of Münster. The Rectorate Representative against Antisemitism initiates and coordinates preventative measures that combat antisemitism.