Discrimination and sexual harassment

The Rottenburg School of Forestry is committed to fostering a study and work environment characterised by mutual respect and equal opportunities for all members of the school. Discrimination and sexual harassment will not be tolerated at the university under any circumstances! All members should be able to defend themselves against sexual harassment and discrimination without fear and without restricting their development opportunities.

According to the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), discrimination is understood to mean marginalisation and objectively unjustifiable disadvantages that people experience due to attributions or (supposed) affiliations. This can occur directly in contact with others (direct discrimination) or indirectly through supposedly neutral procedures, regulations, or criteria (indirect discrimination). Discrimination, therefore occurs when the same is treated unequally or people with unequal conditions are treated equally. A sexual boundary violation is any sexual behaviour that is not desired and is perceived as disrespectful or offensive. It can be verbal, non-verbal, or physical. The question of whether a situation constitutes discrimination is determined by the outcome. The intention or motivation behind an action or regulation is not relevant.

Discrimination can be expressed as follows:

Derogatory remarks about appearance, behaviour, or private life
Offensive or derogatory jokes
Discrimination based on the grounds of discrimination
Unwanted touching
Sexual assault and rape
Unsolicited invitations, letters, or e-mails

Discrimination can be differentiated according to the characteristics to which it relates:

Ethnic origin
Gender
Religion or worldview
Disability
Age
Sexual identity
In the university context also: marital status/family obligations

These characteristics are considered worthy of protection as they relate to essential personality traits and cannot be changed at will.

If you have experienced or witnessed discrimination or sexual harassment at HFR, please do not hesitate to report it! If you are unsure whether what you have experienced is discrimination, we will be happy to advise you – even anonymously!

You can use the form below to report the incident anonymously.

We also offer you an anonymous initial consultation. Your details will be treated in strict confidence. No further steps will be taken without your consent!

Of course, you can also get in touch with a contact person directly: