Evaluation of UU complaints procedure for inappropriate behaviour published
Friday, 19 March saw the publication of the advisory report ‘Evaluation Complaints Mechanism Inappropriate Behaviour Utrecht University’. This report contains the findings of Prof. Dr Eddy Bauw and Peter Schokker (Bureau BING, specialising in integrity issues). At the request of the Executive Board, the Bauw Committee scrutinised the university’s procedure for reporting and handling complaints. The Executive Board is set to discuss the report with the University Council in conjunction with a recently presented memorandum from a University Council task force (pdf).
The reason for setting up the committee was the negative experiences of complainants, the accused and those directly involved in a recent complaint case. Social safety is an extremely high priority for the Executive Board. Inappropriate behaviour is unacceptable and Utrecht University is committed to doing all it can to prevent it. If it does occur, it must be dealt with and resolved in the right way. According to the Executive Board, an adequately designed complaints procedure is a necessary but not a sufficient condition for combating inappropriate behaviour.
Based on the complaints that the Committee for Inappropriate Behaviour has handled over the past three years, the Bauw Committee analysed the complaints procedure. The Bauw Committee noted that Utrecht University’s complaints mechanism is in line with other universities’ procedures. However, this observation is not sufficient for satisfaction with the current complaints procedure. Improvements are necessary on a number of important points. The Committee advises making the complaints procedure and the position and interpretation of the Committee for Inappropriate Behaviour more robust in a number of areas. Recommendations include the improvement of working processes, the investigative role of the Committee for Inappropriate Behaviour, the organisation of aftercare, transparent appointment procedures for commission members and the appointment of an external, clearly visible chair.
The report also contains a number of recommendations that went beyond the scope of the assignment and dovetail with broader discussion on ensuring a socially safe working environment. At various points these recommendations touch on the recommendations contained in the ‘Advisory Memorandum on Reporting and Complaining about Inappropriate Behaviour’ recently drawn up by a task force encompassing members of the University Council. The Executive Board considers both documents to be extremely worthwhile and is keen to discuss them in conjunction with the University Council, deans, directors and confidants. Subsequently, decisions will be made on advisable measures to combat inappropriate behaviour. The aim is to create a positive, safe environment in which to work and study, one where everyone is able to develop their talents to the full.
The initial discussion with the University Council is expected to be held in April.
Download the report of the External Committee on Social Safety (PDF)
Reporting inappropriate behaviour
If you experience inappropriate behaviour while working or studying at Utrecht University, please try to address the matter with the person concerned. If you do not feel comfortable doing so or it proves ineffective, feel free to raise the matter with your manager, HR adviser or the occupational physician. If your network of colleagues or manager(s) are unable to help you or you would prefer to discuss the problem in a safe environment, please get in touch with one of the confidants for inappropriate behaviour. Further information can be found here: Inappropriate behaviour.