Diversity in focus: University of Freiburg starts groundbreaking audit!

Diversity in focus: University of Freiburg starts groundbreaking audit!

On March 8, 2025, the University of Freiburg will start a comprehensive process to promote diversity and inclusion. As part of this project, the donor association will initiate a diversity audit, which will be concluded with a certificate that is valid for three years. The crucial kick-off event will take place on May 5, 2025 and marks the start of a series of internal university workshops.

Prof. Dr. Sylvia Paletschek, Vice Rector for University Culture, emphasizes the fundamental importance of diversity. She emphasizes that a diverse university community not only enriches research and teaching, but also contributes to better working conditions. In this context, diversity is seen as the central mission of a university within a democratic society.

Structure and process of the audit

The auditing process includes a total of five workshops, which are moderated by an external auditor. Members of the university are invited to discuss topics such as gender equality, sexual diversity, anti-racism, cultural diversity, inclusion, educational equity and family justice in these workshops. These discussions will flow directly into the later stages of the process and thus help shape the future strategy.

In addition to the workshops, round tables, expert panels and a diversity forum are also planned. These formats are intended to promote exchange and the development of a newly developed strategy for equality, diversity and inclusion. Dr. Wibke Backhaus, Head of the Equality, Diversity and Academic Personnel Development Department, is confident about the upcoming discussions on equal opportunities and diversity.

Long-term integration into structural planning

The results of the audit and the workshops are to be integrated into the university's structural and development planning from 2028. This step shows how seriously the University of Freiburg takes the task of creating an inclusive and fair environment. This commitment makes an important contribution to further strengthening higher education in Germany.

The donor association, which supports the implementation of the audit, sees the promotion of diversity and equal opportunities as central elements for successful higher education. This commitment will have a lasting impact on the quality and content of teaching and research in the coming years, as well as on society's perception of the university.

For further information, please visit the official website of the University of Freiburg here.