Alice Salomon Hochschule (ASH) Berlin has presented a comprehensive protection concept for dealing with sexualized discrimination, harassment and violence as well as anti-feminist attacks. The concept, which was developed as part of the Berline equal opportunities program from 2022 to 2026, goes beyond legal requirements and creates binding structures for prevention, intervention and aftercare.
The protection concept covers ten key areas of action: from further training opportunities and transparent advisory structures to clear intervention plans and dealing with institutional entanglements. For the first time, there are also concrete measures for dealing with anti-feminist hostility, which is increasingly affecting researchers and gender equality actors.
"Sexualized discrimination and violence are not isolated cases, but structural problems that need an institutional response," explains Peps Gutsche, Protection Concept Development Officer: "With this concept, we are not only creating procedures that are appropriate for those affected in the event of an emergency, but also promoting a culture in which people can talk about transgressions without fear."
Simone Wibbeke, Deputy Central Women's* and Gender Equality Officer, adds: "To study successfully and work productively, you need spaces where people feel comfortable and safe. The protection concept is an important step towards developing these spaces at our university and offering guidance and protection to all members of ASH Berlin."
The participatory development process involving all members of the university and the external expert advice from Wildwasser e.V. should be particularly emphasized. The concept is evaluated every three years and continuously developed further.
The handout on the protection concept can be ordered in printed form at schutzkonzept@ ash-berlin.eu or downloaded here.
