The University

Anti-Discrimination

Working Together for a Respectful Campus

At HTWG, we value respectful interaction among equals. Nevertheless, situations may arise in which boundaries are crossed—in everyday life, whether subtly or overtly. This is precisely where our anti-discrimination efforts come into play. They are not limited to “major incidents,” but apply to any situation in which you feel uncomfortable, disadvantaged, or unsafe. You might be asking yourself, “Was that discrimination?” or “Am I overreacting?”
If a situation has violated your personal boundaries, we take that seriously. You are not alone in having these kinds of experiences.

What does anti-discrimination mean?

Anti-discrimination encompasses measures to protect against discrimination based on personal characteristics, such as gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, or social background.
It combines prevention, awareness-raising, and transparent procedures in cases of discrimination.

Anti-Discrimination at HTWG – Overview

The university takes a holistic approach: prevention programs raise awareness of the risks of discrimination. Binding structures and transparent procedures ensure support in the event of a conflict and are based on both statutory requirements and the university’s internal bylaws.
The following sections provide an overview of forms of discrimination, areas of responsibility, and the institutional framework.

Forms of Discrimination and Violations of Boundaries

Discrimination and boundary violations can take various forms—overt or subtle, one-time or repeated. Not every situation is clear-cut. What matters is how it is experienced and whether personal boundaries are crossed.

Sexual Harassment
This includes unwanted sexual advances, remarks, or actions—regardless of whether they are physical, verbal, or digital.
Such situations can occur once or repeatedly, for example in classes, at the workplace, at university events, or in digital communication. They may also be related to power or dependency dynamics, such as between faculty and students or between supervisors and employees.
Examples:
Suggestive comments or sexualized “jokes”
Unwanted physical contact or advances
Repeated invitations or personal messages despite a clear rejection
Comments about the body, appearance, or clothing that are sexually suggestive
Sending sexually explicit messages or images
Threats of professional or academic repercussions in connection with sexual expectations
Discrimination
This involves discriminating against, excluding, or demeaning people based on personal characteristics—such as gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic origin, religion or belief, disability, age, or social background.
Examples:
Derogatory remarks about a person's background, gender, religion, or lifestyle
Unequal treatment in performance evaluations or the assignment of tasks
Exclusion from teaching, academic, or work-related processes
Stereotypical generalizations or derogatory “jokes” about certain groups

Stalking
This involves repeatedly following, watching, or contacting a person against their will. This behavior can cause fear, stress, or a feeling of being threatened.
Examples:
Lying in wait or repeatedly appearing at known locations
Frequent messages, calls, or attempts to contact someone despite a clear refusal
Observation or Monitoring in Everyday Life or in a College Setting
Collecting or Sharing Personal Information
Contacting someone via social media or other digital channels despite being blocked
Bullying
This involves repeatedly belittling, excluding, or deliberately discriminating against a person over an extended period of time.
Examples:
Spreading rumors about someone
Systematic Ignoring or Exclusion
Repeated ridicule or humiliation
Withholding important information needed for school or work

If you're unsure whether your situation falls under this category, you can always seek confidential advice.

Go to the Help page

Here's how we support you

HTWG provides a safe space to discuss incidents and explore possible next steps. You decide for yourself how to proceed. Contacting us does not obligate you to initiate a formal process.

Procedures for Addressing Discrimination
There are established procedures for addressing discrimination, harassment, or sexual violence. These procedures ensure that:
Confidentiality
Protection of the Subject
transparent Processes
fair investigation of the allegations

You can find information on reporting procedures and contact persons here: About the Points of Contact and Procedures
Prevention & Awareness
The HTWG is actively committed to preventing discrimination and sexual violence and to fostering a respectful environment.
This involves not only addressing specific incidents but also recognizing boundary violations early on and promoting confidence in taking appropriate action in everyday university life.
Prevention measures include, in particular:
- Binding structures, such as bylaws, with clearly defined procedures and responsibilities, as well as designated points of contact
- Visible and easily accessible contact options, such as through the website, an anonymous contact form, or notices on campus
- Awareness-raising and training programs for students, faculty, and staff (e.g., “Be Aware” as part of the Studium Generale in cooperation with the Nachtlicht initiative)
- the development of common guidelines for respectful interaction (e.g., a Code of Conduct)
These measures are continuously being refined. This process is based, among other things, on feedback from the university as well as regular surveys of students and staff.
Legal Framework
HTWG’s anti-discrimination efforts are based on legal provisions and internal university regulations. The central foundation is the HTWG Konstanz Charter for Promoting a Positive Work and Study Environment (German).
It defines responsibilities, procedures, and protective measures for addressing discrimination, harassment, and sexual violence. In addition, the university adheres to the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) and other relevant legal provisions.

Contact

Do you have questions about our offerings or would you like to share your suggestions?
Feel free to contact us at:

teamgleich@htwg-konstanz.de

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