Together for diversity
At Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE), we are convinced that diversity enriches the way we live and learn together. Whether cultural origins, social backgrounds or individual lifestyles - we are creating a university in which openness, respect and mutual appreciation are a matter of course. Together, we create an environment in which everyone is welcome and can develop.
Our values
For us, diversity is more than difference - it is the basis for respectful and fair cooperation at HNEE. We are committed to a culture of equal opportunities, inclusion and mutual support, which is reflected in our guidelines.
With this commitment, we make an important contribution to a progressive and fair university environment in which everyone involved can fulfil their potential.
Democracy, diversity and tolerance in thought and action as well as constructive and solidary co-operation are the cornerstones for impulses in teaching and research. At a time when there is growing concern about the continued existence of our open society, our appeal is all the clearer: Together and unreservedly in favour of a solidary and democratic society!
Prof Dr Matthias Barth
President of the HNEE
Network for diversity and equal opportunities
The Network for Diversity and Equal Opportunities is an association of various coordinators and representatives of HNEE for the organisation of diversity and equal opportunities as well as the implementation of the equality concept and the anti-racism concept.
It stands for open, respectful and inclusive cooperation. It brings together employees, students and partners to promote a culture of appreciation and participation.
The network is actively committed to breaking down barriers, making diversity visible and offering equal opportunities to all members of the university community - regardless of gender and gender identity, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or world view, disability, age and sexual orientation.
All university members should experience participation and appreciation. With this network, we contribute to a progressive and fair university environment.
Counselling and support
We offer free, confidential and, if you wish, anonymous initial counselling and will listen to you. We cannot offer a solution in every case, but we are happy to support and accompany you in your search for a suitable solution and in any further steps you may wish to take, and we can put you in touch with counselling centres.
Our commitments
Cosmopolitanism and international cooperation
The Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE) is a cosmopolitan university that sees diversity and international exchange as the basis for academic success.
We currently maintain 85 partnerships in 39 countries. Around 12 per cent of our students and almost 10 per cent of our staff come from abroad. Together with the city of Eberswalde, we are actively working to create a welcoming culture.
We see diversity and openness at HNEE and in society as both a great opportunity and an obligation. This is why we are part of the "Weltoffene Hochschulen - gegen Fremdenfeindlichkeit" (Open-minded universities - against xenophobia) campaign organised by the German Rectors' Conference (HRK). This initiative is clearly against racism and violence - an important step that the HRK decided to take at its general meeting in November 2015.
Diversity Charta
Since January 2023, HNEE has been a signatory to the Diversity Charter, thereby sending a clear signal in favour of diversity in the world of work.
The aim of implementing the charter is to create a respectful working environment for all employees - regardless of age, ethnic origin, gender, physical and mental abilities, religion, sexual orientation or social background.
We are convinced that the diversity of our employees opens up opportunities for innovative and creative solutions. Living diversity and valuing this diversity has a positive impact on HNEE, the city of Eberswalde and society as a whole.
