Guide to gender-sensitive language and imagery
The booklet “Language is Diverse – HU Guidelines for Gender-Sensitive Language” provides a concise, practical overview of how to use inclusive language in everyday university life. The guide was adopted by the University Management in December 2019 as a recommendation for all members of the HU community. The printed (german) version is available from the Centre for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging – you are welcome to order copies for your department there or download them here.
HU's Guide to Gender-Neutral Language (German)
Gender-sensitive tendering
Under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), job advertisements must address all genders (m/f/d) in a non-discriminatory manner. Furthermore, consistent use of gender-neutral language helps to attract a more diverse pool of applicants. Stereotypical phrasing should be avoided, and agentive and communal descriptions should be used in a balanced way – as the former has masculine connotations and the latter feminine ones.
Tip: The Gender Decoder helps you check job advertisements.
Contact
Gender Equality and Equity
Gender Equality & Equity
The Gender Equality & Equity Office within the Centre for Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging serves as the central coordination and contact point for all matters and enquiries relating to gender equality. Key areas of our work include gender diversity, gender-based discrimination, the advancement and empowerment of women, pay equity, and gender-sensitive recruitment and promotion procedures.
