A new section has been added to the Code of Ethics of Masaryk University. The university has established the Equal Opportunity Panel, an advisory body to the rector focusing primarily on issues of gender equality and non-discrimination.
“We have to look and see whether rules – as applied in specific settings and situations – are really set up to provide truly equal opportunities,” says Naděžda Rozehnalová, vice-rector for student welfare, on the reasons for establishing the Panel.
She stresses that its agenda will concern not only gender discrimination and equal opportunities for women in science and management, but also other inequality issues, such as discrimination against disabled people or discrimination based on age.
The Panel has seven members and will act primarily in response to submissions. Submissions to the Panel can be made by anyone, but they have to be in writing and cannot be made anonymously. When considering a submission, the Panel can ask any university employee or student to provide additional information about the matter. If the Panel finds that the principles of equality and non-discrimination have been violated, it can make the case public.
“We will also look into work–life balance. We have already suggested an arrangement regarding future grants awarded by the MU Grant Agency that will help researchers who are coming back to work after maternity leave or parental leave,” says Rozehnalová, giving another example of the Panel’s activities. She also adds that she would welcome suggestions from other areas as well.
The Vice-Rector expects that the Panel will not only deal with specific cases, but will also proactively look into potential future problems: “We could have a look at the job structure at MU and gather more information regarding other areas where discrimination is a potential problem.”