Equality

Equality and non-discrimination at Tampere University

The legal requirements as regards equality and non-discrimination are implemented according to the Tampere University’s Equality and Non-Discrimination Policy 2021-2022. The policy is valid until 30.4.2023. Furthermore, Tampere University has a separate Accessibility Policy for years 2023-2024.

The Safer Spaces Policy, which was drawn up as a collaborative effort, applies to all the members of the Tampere Universities community.

Draft versions of Tampere University’s Equality and Non-discrimination Policies 2023-25

Tampere University’s Equality and Non-Discrimination Policies are currently being updated. As recommended by the Ombudsman for Equality, a separate Equality and non-discrimination policy for human resources and an Operational equality and non-discrimination policy for the education provider are being prepared. The two-year policies will be completed in summer after the comment rounds.

Attachments to the draft versions of the policies:

Equality and non-discrimination survey

The Equal Opportunities Committee conducted an equality and non-discrimination survey to the staff in autumn 2022. A summary of the results.

Equal Opportunities Committee

The President has established an Equal Opportunities Committee which is responsible for monitoring and assessing the achievement of the goals set out in the University’s Equality and Non-discrimination Policy. The committee prepares a report to the University management every two years. The committee can also make proposals and issue statements concerning the fulfilment and development of equality and non-discrimination across the University. The committee communicates equality-related topics to the university community.

The terms of the members appointed to the Equal Opportunities Committee will run to 31 August 2023. Contact: yhdenvertaisuus.tau [at] tuni.fi.

Members of the Equal Opportunities Committee 2022-2023:

Paula Järvenpää, Development Manager, Operations Management and Administrative Services, Chair
Laura Kaipia, Student Representative
Jussi Kivistö, Professor
Aino Halinen, Student Representative
Anna Rastas, University Lecturer 
Esa Räsänen, Professor
Jaana Salmensivu-Anttila, Development Manager, HR Services, Expert Secretary
Elisa Sinikallio, Education Specialist, Education and Learning
Nataliya Strokina, Staff Scientist 
Raisa Suominen, Senior Specialist, HR Services 

If you suspect that you have been treated unequally, discriminated against or harassed

Harassment contacts and instructions

You can contact the harassment contacts, whose jobs include addressing cases of inappropriate treatment and harassment at Tampere University. Please see contacts and instructions:

• Inappropriate conduct, harassment and bullying in work community
• Sexual and gender-based harassment
• Dealing with harassment, hate speech and controversy on social media
• Inappropriate conduct, harassment and bullying – help for students

External bodies

Ombudsman for Equality
If you suspect that your employer, University or other body has discriminated against you because of your gender, gender identity or gender expression, or otherwise violated the law on equality between women and men, you can ask the Ombudsman for Equality for guidance, advice, and help in resolving the matter. The Ombudsman for Equality can also provide you with other information on the Act on Equality between Women and Men.

Office of the Ombudsman for Equality, Helpline number: +358 295 666 842 (Monday to Tuesday at 9–11 and 13–15, on Friday at 9–11). Instructions and a secure contact form available on the website.

Non-Discrimination Ombudsman
If you have experienced or observed discrimination on grounds of age, origin, nationality, language, religion, belief, opinion, political activity, trade union activities, family relationships, health, disability, sexual orientation or other personal grounds, you can also turn to the Ombudsman for Equality.

Office of the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman, Customer service number: +358 295 666 817 (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10–12), chat on Mondays and Wednesdays at 13–15. Instructions and a secure contact form available on the website.

Regional State Administrative Agency
If you suspect that you have been discriminated against on one of the grounds prohibited by law, but your employer is unable to provide you with clarification, you can contact Occupational safety and health authorities at the Regional State Administrative Agency to clarify the matter. You can also contact us anonymously. It is recommended acting quickly, since the discrimination claim may expire. Regional State Administrative Agency for Western and Inland Finland,  Tampere, switchboard +358 295 018 450, tyosuojelu.lansi [at] avi.fi (t)yosuojelu.lansi [at] avi.fi