Our understanding of Diversity

The term diversity means difference(s) and variety, plurality and heterogeneity. The following categories are generally emphasized in the debate concerning diversity: ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, world-view, age and disability. Critical theories on diversity include further levels such as class and additionally address the entanglement between the different dimensions.

Diversity Management characterizes the strategies, concepts and measures that are needed in order to deal with personal and organizational diversity in companies and institutions and is consequently, an assignment for management. Managing diversity implies the conscious dealing with diversity as an assignment for all participants. In the University of Bremen, managing diversity is closely tied to the approaches regarding anti-discrimination and equal opportunities. We enable networking, communication, participation and at the same time cross-dimensional thinking.

We introduced the diversity processes in 2009 with the signature of the „Charter of Diversity.” Since 2010, we have been participating in two nation-wide projects regarding diversity in institutions of higher education. Our activities include both the advancement and support  of specific target groups as well as spanning offers for everyone.

One diversity management strategy on behalf of the university administration is currently being developed by the Vice Rector for Intercultural and International Affairs in co-operation with different actors. On behalf of the personnel development, the chancellor of the university is initiating the project ”Good leading- creating the future together,” where it is about dealing with a responsible, appreciative culture of management at the University of Bremen.

Managing Diversity is something that we perceive as a cross-dimensional assignment. That is why we would like to encourage all fields of sensitization and conviction processes towards increased opportunities, equal education and diversity as a potential. Another goal is to establish new networks and co-operations among different fields and projects of the university.