How to report a case of bullying, harassment or sexual harassment
The working and learning environment at our university must be completely proper. This means, among other things, that students and employees must not be subjected to harassment or other inappropriate behaviour.
Bullying and harassment carried out by students may result in a warning, expulsion or exclusion of the student(s). This applies to both bullying and harassment directed at other students and towards staff.
Checklist for students reporting bullying or harassment
Support and guidance
If you are not sure about whether you dare or want to report a case, you can get advice and guidance from, for example, the counselling service at Sammen, legal assistance from UiB's Student Ombudsman, a student representative, or a trade union if you are a member. It is entirely up to you who you choose to talk to about it.
Be as factual, precise and concrete as possible
The threshold for speaking up should not be high, but it is good to have a clear narrative of what happened – to the extent that it is possible. Who said or did what, where and when? Also consider whether there may be a misunderstanding. It is possible that you, or they, have misunderstood something the other has said. Consider a follow-up conversation if it could help clarify the issue. Some cases can be resolved quickly and painlessly, and if they cannot, you will have a better basis for speaking up.
Use a matter-of-fact and moderate form
When you speak up, it is best to start with as concise a description as you can manage. Then, you can explain how this has affected you, for example, whether you felt personally offended, whether the case has had consequences for you, and any other crucial details. This helps to get the case on the right track from the start.
If you want to remain anonymous, say so right away, and explain why as best as you can
If you are afraid of retaliation or are otherwise anxious about others knowing who you are, you must tell us. Please be aware that we can never guarantee your anonymity, and if you remain anonymous, it may be difficult for us to follow up on the issue.
Receiving information and updates after reporting
We will keep you informed about what is happening in the case, but you do not always have the right to have access to all the information.
Every case is different. This is why the university’s right and obligation to provide you with information varies depending on the case. If you are a party to the case, you will usually have the right to receive information on the parts that directly concern you, but you won’t necessarily receive updates about other people. As a general rule, you will be informed about the development of the case and about our conclusion when it is completed.
What is bullying and harassment?
Harassment can occur in many different forms, with bullying and sexual harassment being the most well-known forms. Harassment is usually repeated actions over time, but serious single incidents can also be defined as harassment.
Sexual harassment can be physical, verbal, and non-verbal (body language) and can include anything from sexual comments to unwanted touching and rape. For something to be sexual harassment, the attention must be unwanted.