Aalto University’s principles for a safer space
Below you will find the principles for a safer space, which help everyone build better everyday interactions with the members of our community.
Respecting diversity and being kind to others ​
Meet the people around you with an open mind. Actively promote everyone's participation in different community encounters. Pay attention to how the people around you are doing and how your behaviour affects them. Use language that everyone can understand – this way, everyone can participate.
Be aware of the preconceptions you have and generalisations you make. Our unconscious biases and stereotypes can unfairly affect various groups of people. Our backgrounds, experiences, and positions differ from one another. This affects our ways of thinking, our perspectives, and how we work with people. Even if you feel safe and accepted, do not assume that everyone else feels the same way.
Giving space and learning new perspectives
Give space to everyone to be themselves, stay open to new perspectives, share experiences, listen to others, and try new ways to promote open discussion and build mutual trust. At the same time, you may ask questions and can disagree with others.
We are bound to make mistakes, so give each other the room to make mistakes and be sensitive and compassionate towards yourself and others. If you make a mistake, acknowledge it and try to adjust your actions accordingly. Approach others' mistakes and misunderstandings with understanding and try to discuss the matter with others.​
Having courage to intervene and maintain wellbeing
Taking care of a safer environment is a work in progress. We do not tolerate any form of inappropriate treatment, bullying, or harassment. If you notice someone acting in such a manner or experience an incident yourself, do not hesitate to act. Try to address inappropriate speech and behaviour by respectfully but firmly pointing out things you find unacceptable.
Ask for help when needed. Support is available, and Aalto University has clear and consistent procedures to address harassment and inappropriate treatment. If you have experienced or suspect having experienced inappropriate treatment or harassment, or if you need to address inappropriate treatment as a supervisor of your unit or team, you can find support and guidance on the preventing harassment and inappropriate conduct page.
Support in case of harassment and inappropriate conduct for students and personnel