Diversity on campus: UniBw M sets an example for tolerance and respect!

Diversity on campus: UniBw M sets an example for tolerance and respect!

The University of the Bundeswehr Munich (UniBw M) took an active part in the nationwide Diversity Day on May 27, 2025. Under the motto “From Uni to Bw: Discover the Campus,” numerous events took place from May 26th to 28th that aimed to promote diversity and tolerance. The focus should be on respectful cooperation and an understanding of different specialist and work cultures. Civilian and military employees as well as students came together in various formats to talk to each other.

On the first day of the event, May 26th, the Newcomer@UniBw M – Lunch & Connect event was organized to give new employees the opportunity to exchange ideas and network. On May 27th, the Parental Allowance Office Center Bavaria informed families and social affairs about parental allowance. In a quiz entitled “Experience diversity on campus – language connects” the participants tested their knowledge about the university and different languages.

Diversity and exchange in focus

A special highlight of the events was a French breakfast, which was offered by the military chaplaincy and highlighted the German-French friendship. The interactive experience day “Sporting Synergies” took place on May 28th as part of the “Change of Perspectives – Immersive Experience Days” project. Here the participants had the opportunity to try out inclusive sports such as sitting volleyball and a wheelchair course.

The civil equality office of UniBw M has been regularly coordinating the program for the day of action since 2017. In addition, the Bundeswehr is committing itself by signing the Diversity Charter to respectful treatment and equal opportunities. Information about other planned events in May and June can be found on the Equal Opportunities Office website. Prof. Eva-Maria Kern, President of UniBw M, also sent a greeting to all university members, which is available on the university's YouTube channel.

Diversity as a key to equal opportunities

The Diversity Charter, a non-profit association, has been examining the dimensions of diversity in companies since 2010. This includes the core dimensions of age, ethnic origin & nationality, gender & gender identity, physical and mental abilities, religion & ideology, sexual orientation and social background. These dimensions are equivalent and should be integrated into various activities. The topics are particularly relevant due to demographic change, the 2015 refugee crisis and the current racism debates.

These topics are not only academic in nature, but also have a direct impact on companies and institutions in Germany. The Arsipa Group, as a new member of the Diversity Charter e. V., reaffirms its commitment to an appreciative corporate culture and underlines the responsibility for safety and health in the workplace. Such memberships make it clear that a working world that embraces diversity is also sustainable.

In recent years, the discussion about diversity and inclusion has gained momentum, including as part of DEI strategies in companies, some of which are undergoing a fundamental reassessment. Responsible organizations and institutions are therefore called upon to take a clear stand and take active action against discrimination and inequality.