10.6.11
Anti-Harassment Policy
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to define the University of Thessaly’s commitment to ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all members of its academic community. The policy prohibits all forms of harassment, bullying, sexual harassment, intimidation, and related misconduct, and establishes clear procedures for prevention, reporting, and resolution.
2. Scope
This policy applies to:
– All members of the University community — faculty, administrative staff, students, researchers, contractors, and visitors.
– All University settings — classrooms, offices, laboratories, fieldwork sites, residences, online environments, and events.
– All relationships within the University, including academic, employment, and supervisory interactions.
It covers harassment occurring on or off campus, including digital or social media spaces associated with University activities.
3. Definitions
– Harassment: Unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
– Sexual Harassment: Any form of unwanted verbal, non-verbal, or physical behavior of a sexual nature that offends the dignity of a person, including acts that create an intimidating or hostile environment.
– Bullying: Persistent or repeated behavior intended to intimidate, degrade, or humiliate another individual.
– Victimization: Adverse treatment of an individual who has made or supported a complaint under this policy.
– Retaliation: Any negative consequence or threat imposed on someone for reporting misconduct or participating in an investigation.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of harassment and bullying. It commits to:
1. Promoting a culture of dignity, respect, and equality.
2. Providing education, training, and awareness programs for staff and students.
3. Ensuring accessible and confidential reporting mechanisms.
4. Conducting impartial and timely investigations of complaints.
5. Protecting the privacy, safety, and well-being of all parties involved.
6. Taking disciplinary measures against proven cases of harassment.
7. Offering support and counseling to affected individuals.
8. Maintaining clear procedures consistent with Greek and EU law.
5. Reporting and Investigation Procedures
Complaints may be submitted confidentially to the Office in charge or through the University’s Online Reporting Portal. Anonymous reporting is permitted but may limit investigation capacity. Investigations will follow due process and confidentiality standards, respecting the rights of both complainant and respondent. Interim protective measures may be taken (e.g., reassignment, no-contact orders). The University prohibits retaliation against individuals who act in good faith under this policy.
6. Implementation Responsibilities
The University manages awareness, prevention, and initial guidance. It oversees staff-related complaints and student-related cases. The Rectorate ensures compliance and approves disciplinary decisions. The Quality Assurance Unit (MODIP) monitors implementation indicators and progress.
7. Education and Awareness
Annual training shall be provided to staff and new students. The University will host awareness campaigns and workshops on respectful communication and workplace conduct. Training will emphasize bystander intervention and prevention of sexual harassment.
8. Monitoring and Review
The University will compile annual reports (anonymized) summarizing cases and preventive actions. The Senate will review the data to ensure effectiveness and compliance. The policy will be revised every three (3) years or as required by law.
9. References and Legal Framework
– Greek Law 4808/2021 (Violence and Harassment at Work)
– Greek Law 4957/2022 (Higher Education)
– EU Directive 2006/54/EC (Equal Treatment in Employment and Occupation)
– UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG 5, SDG 16)
– University of Thessaly Code of Ethics and Conduct