LIACS is committed to inclusive work and study experiences, respectful of all students and staff, and free of discrimination, harassment, bullying, or retaliation. An inclusive and respectful atmosphere is vital to free expression and the open exchange of ideas.

For this reason, we expect all LIACS staff and students to exercise consideration and respect in their speech and actions. They should refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, or harassing behaviour and speech. Additionally, everyone at LIACS should be mindful of their surroundings and their fellow participants. 

Unacceptable behaviours include intimidating, harassing, abusive, discriminatory, derogatory, or demeaning speech or actions that interfere with a person’s work or study, or that cause fear for someone’s personal safety. This encompasses offensive, degrading, humiliating, harmful, or prejudicial verbal or written comments, as well as visual images related to gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, disability, age, appearance, or other personal characteristics. Unacceptable behaviours also include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Inappropriate or gratuitous use of nudity, sexual images, or stereotyped images, including using LIACS communication channels to display or distribute sexually explicit or otherwise offensive or discriminatory images or messages, is also unacceptable.

LIACS aims to provide a warm, friendly, and open environment for students and staff of all genders, ages, disabilities, appearances, identities, nationalities, and ethnic and religious backgrounds. We strive to continuously create a welcoming atmosphere that enables students and staff members to fully develop their capabilities. The Confidential Advisors at LIACS play a crucial role in ensuring a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment for all students and personnel, aligning with the core values of Leiden University and with the vision of the institute. In the document on the top right side you can read the mandate, tasks, and responsibilities of the Confidential Advisors at LIACS, as well as their role in providing confidential, non-judgmental support and guidance on social safety issues.

The University also has a page that gives information about  which ‘helplines’ can assist you if you have experienced or witnessed unacceptable or transgressive behaviour.  Social safety page Leiden University