Code of Ethics and Conduct
The Code of Ethics and Conduct sets out to encapsulate the most important principles of cooperation in research, teaching, administration and management for our organisation. It is intended for all the University’s staff and students.
This makes is particularly important that all members of the University are able to identify with the sets of values identified in this collaborative process. As well as putting together a document that serves as a set of guidelines, the “Code of Ethics and Conduct” strategic project is above all geared towards tackling the issue broadly so that shared perspectives that are important for the University are ultimately embraced in its day-to-day life.
Two large group workshops were held in 2013, which identified and explored five core topics:
- Our identity
- Our culture
- Transparency in communication
- Transparency in decisions
- Our responsibility
Five “value circles” were organised in the first half of 2014 to come up with specific proposals for implementing these five core topics and putting them into words. Any employees or students who were interested were able to take part in the half-day workshops.
All members of the University had the chance to discuss this draft and add their own comments and suggestions over the summer and at the final workshop held in the auditorium on 28 October 2014.
After nearly two years, the project produced initial results in early 2015 with the completion of a brochure. Five years after the Code of Ethics and Conduct was completed, the time was ripe for a critical review and an overhaul. In the new version, the attempt was made to add examples that help to improve how we live and work together and make the daily routine at our University a little easier – entirely in keeping with the spirit of the Code. You will find these on the last few pages of the 2nd edition.
Together with you, we would like to keep working on these guidelines, which are designed to foster a pleasant and respectful atmosphere of togetherness at the University of Graz and that can and must continue to develop, just like our University itself. A project of this kind can only retain its vitality if we all contribute to its evolution and “set an example”. It is now up to you to continue the discussion! Help us to work on the University of Graz’s values and get in touch with us at werte(at)uni-graz.at.