“University – a Safe Space Free from Mobbing and Discrimination” was the theme of a scientific conference held at the University of Zielona Góra. The discussions focused on preventing mobbing and discrimination in the academic environment and on creating a safe and supportive space at universities. The conference brought together the authorities of the University of Zielona Góra, deans, institute directors and administrative staff in the auditorium of the University of Zielona Góra Library. The event provided an opportunity to discuss anti-mobbing policies and measures undertaken by Polish universities to prevent inappropriate behaviour. Current research findings on mobbing and discrimination in higher education institutions were also presented. The speakers shared examples of good practices that foster a culture of equality, accessibility and mutual respect. As Rector of the University of Zielona Góra, Prof. Wojciech Strzyżewski, explained: “Equal treatment will always be a subject of discussion. Even though it is clearly defined by law, it will continue to evoke emotions. I would like this conference to systematise our knowledge on the subject and point to the directions we should follow.”
As the organisers of the conference emphasised: “Mobbing is one of the most serious negative phenomena in the workplace, with far-reaching consequences for both employees and the institution as a whole. Its impact extends beyond individual consequences, affecting workplace relationships and the overall condition of an organisation. Its effects are long-lasting and include health, social and economic aspects. Therefore, only early awareness of negative phenomena and efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and mobbing can ensure employees’ comfort and safety in the workplace. This also applies to people working and studying at Polish universities.”
Problems need to be openly discussed and appropriate steps taken to address them. As Prof. Magdalena Steciąg, UZ Representative for Equal Treatment, summarised: “It is important to discuss these topics openly, not to hide or sweep them under the rug, because that leads nowhere. It is important that we work towards improving the situation. I would like us to achieve a kind of harmony in our academic working environment that allows everyone to develop at their own pace and according to their abilities. I want everyone at work to feel appreciated and supported and to be able to pursue their life plans and passions.”
The first part of the conference featured three presentations summarising research findings. Prof. Maria Mrówczyńska, Deputy Minister of Science and Higher Education, who attended the conference, spoke about the importance of the principles of a safe university and the way they are reflected in the evaluation of scientific units. As the Deputy Minister noted: “The role of the Representative for Equal Treatment is extremely important. It should foster an atmosphere of trust, safety and openness, so that people experiencing inappropriate behaviour are not afraid to report problems.” Next, Prof. Jacek Męcina of the University of Warsaw, a researcher and coordinator of the “Safe University” project, presented the nature and scale of the problem of mobbing in the workplace. He also discussed examples of good practices for preventing such phenomena, both at the individual and organisational levels. In his summary, he stated: “Is mobbing a widespread phenomenon? No. Mobbing and other inappropriate behaviours are a marginal aspect. However, because of the severity of this phenomenon, it needs to be addressed and discussed. What we have observed is a lack of openness to honest discussions about what constitutes inappropriate behaviour. This is also an opportunity to discuss the standards we should maintain in our relationships so that our working environment is friendly.”
Another speaker was Dr Dorota Szaban, UZ Professor and Director of the Institute of Sociology at the University of Zielona Góra, who presented the equality index developed at our university – the Academic Equality Index of the University of Zielona Góra (AIR). Prof. Szaban presented its principles and explained how sociological data can be used to measure equality at the University of Zielona Góra.
The second part of the conference featured a panel discussion. It brought together people working on equality and equal treatment at universities in the region, including Julia Kolendowicz, Chair of the Student Parliament, as well as other representatives of the academic community. The panel provided an opportunity to exchange experiences, observations and ideas on how to improve the working and learning environment at higher education institutions.
The conference was organised as part of the project “University – a Safe Space Free from Mobbing and Discrimination – Actions to Support Anti-Mobbing Policies and Address Inappropriate Behaviour at Polish Universities.” This nationwide project is addressed to universities and the entire academic community. It was developed by a team led by Prof. Jacek Męcina and is funded by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education. The University of Zielona Góra was selected as one of the Polish universities to host a scientific conference dedicated to this topic. The event was organised with the support of the University of Zielona Góra, the Centre for Equality, Accessibility and Support at the University of Zielona Góra, and the University of Warsaw. More information about the programme is available at bezpiecznauczelnia.com.pl.
