Point of contact University of Bern
Are you faced with inappropriate online comments, derogatory remarks, digital attacks or negative reactions on the internet or in your inbox as part of your work, research or studies?
The University of Bern’s Hate Speech Working Group supports those affected in assessing the situation and coordinating possible measures.
Contact the Hatespeech Working Group:
nohatespeech@unibe.ch
In consultation with you, the Hatespeech Working Group coordinates further support options in collaboration with Media Relations, the Legal Service, the Social Media Team, the Office for Equal Opportunities and the Security Office.
What the University of Bern is responsible for
The University of Bern is responsible for cases of online hate speech arising in connection with studies or work at the University.
Various forms of online hate speech, such as racist, sexist or other derogatory hostility, are reportable.
Online hate speech can occur in various areas within the university context: for example, on internet platforms, in email inboxes, in online courses or in online comments arising from a public appearance in connection with the University of Bern.
Process of reporting an incident – what happens when you get in touch?
Once you have contacted the helpdesk or reported the incident, the process proceeds as follows:
Assessment of the situation & internal coordination
Once the report has been received, the incident is recorded. The person affected describes the incident (in a face-to-face meeting, via email or by telephone).
The Hate Speech Working Group determines whether it constitutes hate speech.
The Hate Speech working group coordinates the next steps and support options in consultation with the person concerned and in collaboration with media relations, the legal service office, the social media team, the Office for Equal Opportunities and the Security Unit. Options for action and any necessary measures are agreed upon internally by the departments involved.
Where the University’s remit ends – and where else you can find help
When the University of Bern cannot provide direct support:
- Incidents that are unrelated to the University, work or studies, but occur in a private context
- Platforms to which the University of Bern has no access
Other external support services:
These external support services can be contacted, amongst other things, in cases where the University of Bern does not have direct responsibility.
Organisation |
Consultancy services |
Link to the website |
|---|---|---|
Universities of Bern Counselling Centre |
Counselling services for all members of the university community |
|
#NetzCourage |
Specialised support for digital abuse, hate speech and cyberbullying: legal advice, assistance with online profiles and, where necessary, legal action |
|
LGBTIQ‑Helpline |
For people who experience hate speech, discrimination or violence because of their gender identity or sexual orientation — confidential, free of charge and, if desired, anonymous |
|
City of Bern Domestic Violence and Stalking Unit |
Free advice and information on the legal situation and options available regarding stalking |
|
Federal Commission against Racism (FCR) |
Point of contact for racially motivated hate speech or discrimination; information, advice and support in cases of racism |
|
Stop Hate Speech |
A nationwide project that documents hate speech online, identifies hate speech and promotes strategies for counter-speech |
|
victim support services |
Victim support – free, anonymous and confidential; help with mental or physical distress following criminal offences, including online abuse |
|
Online victim support |
Low-threshold online or chat-based advice on violence, threats, cyberbullying or uncertainty about the legal situation |
Discrimination
Processes Personal Integrity
The University of Bern does not tolerate any form of discrimination and is committed to the protection of personal integrity. All members of the University of Bern have the right to be treated in a way that respects their dignity and personal integrity. If you are affected by or witness discrimination, you can report it confidentially at any time. Whether you are a victim or a witness, you can report discrimination confidentially at any time.