10.6.4
Antidiscrimination Policy
1. Purpose
This policy establishes the University of Thessaly’s commitment to maintaining an inclusive, equitable, and respectful academic environment free from discrimination, harassment, or victimization. The purpose is to ensure that every member of the University community—students, faculty, staff, and visitors—is treated with dignity, fairness, and respect regardless of personal or social characteristics.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all members of the University community, including:
– Students (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and visiting).
– Academic, administrative, and technical staff.
– Contractors, partners, and visitors to University premises.
– Participants in University-led projects, events, or activities, both domestic and international.
It covers all forms of discrimination in recruitment, admissions, assessment, employment, promotion, research, teaching, and service delivery.
3. Definitions
– Discrimination: Any act or omission that treats a person or group unfairly or less favorably due to a protected characteristic.
– Protected Characteristics: Include (but are not limited to) gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, color, nationality, religion or belief, disability, age, political opinion, socioeconomic status, or family circumstances.
– Harassment: Unwanted conduct that violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, or, generally, uncomfortable feel.
4. Policy Statement
The University of Thessaly affirms a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and harassment in all its forms. The University shall:
1. Ensure equality of opportunity in education, employment, and participation.
2. Integrate inclusive practices in recruitment, teaching, and evaluation.
3. Establish procedures for reporting, investigating, and resolving discrimination complaints.
4. Provide mandatory antidiscrimination and unconscious bias training for all staff.
5. Ensure accessibility and protection of vulnerable groups
6. Publish periodic reports on equality and diversity.
5. Implementation and Responsibilities
The University shall coordinate implementation, training, and awareness activities.
Department Heads and Supervisors must ensure local compliance and fair treatment within their units.
The University shall maintain transparent recruitment and promotion practices.
The Quality Assurance Unit (MODIP) shall incorporate equality metrics into academic evaluations.
6. Reporting and Complaint Procedures
Complaints may be filed confidentially with the University or through an online reporting form. All reports will be handled promptly, impartially, and with full respect for privacy. Investigations shall adhere to due process and Greek legal standards (Law 4443/2016). Interim protection measures may be taken to safeguard affected individuals. The University prohibits retaliation against any person engaging in good faith in the complaint process.
7. Education and Training
Annual training sessions on equality, unconscious bias, and respectful workplace conduct shall be offered to the staff. Awareness workshops will be offered to students during orientation and throughout the academic year. Specialized training for managers and faculty will emphasize inclusive teaching and supervision.
8. Monitoring and Evaluation
MODIP and the Administrative Office shall jointly monitor compliance and effectiveness. Data on complaints, resolutions, and training participation shall be reviewed annually.
9. Review and Amendment
This policy shall be reviewed every three (3) years or sooner if required by legislative or institutional changes. Revisions shall be proposed by the relevant office and approved by the Governing Council.
10. References and Legal Framework
– Greek Law 4443/2016 (Equal Treatment Directive)
– Greek Law 4808/2021 (Prevention and Combating of Violence and Harassment at Work)
– Greek Constitution, Article 4 (Equality before the Law)
– EU Directive 2000/78/EC on Equal Treatment in Employment
– UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG 5, SDG 10, SDG 16)
– Council of Europe Gender Equality Strategy (2018–2023)
– University of Thessaly Code of Ethics and Conduct