The universities affiliated with the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) are taking part in a nationwide campaign against xenophobia in Germany. The HRK members reached an agreement to this effect yesterday in Kiel. They are expressing their stance on their websites with the slogan “Cosmopolitan Universities—Against Xenophobia.” The universities are thus responding to incidents of racially motivated verbal and physical violence in recent weeks and months.
“Universities are places open to the world. Diversity of opinion and international exchange are the cornerstones of their research and teaching activities. In light of the currently evident rise in xenophobic tendencies, universities feel called upon to actively champion these values,” said HRK President Prof. Dr. Horst Hippler, who initiated the campaign.
“The discussion at the general assembly made clear both the concern and the willingness to take action within the universities. University leaderships want to encourage university members to resist xenophobia and also to have a corresponding impact in their regional communities,” said Hippler. “At this stage, we need clear commitments and decisive action from the majority of the population in support of a tolerant and cosmopolitan society. Setting aside all political discussions about the challenges arising from the influx of refugees, this consensus must be clearly articulated. The universities want to send a strong signal in this regard.”
Contact:
Hella Trillenberg
Advisor to the Rector
Email: h.trillenberg@hszg.de
Antje Pfitzner
Public Relations/University marketing Office
Email: a.pfitzner@hszg.de
www.hrk.de/weltoffene-hochschulen
www.hrk.de/universities-against-xenophobia