A dedicated position at Freie Universität was established in January 2024 to address the needs of those affected by antisemitic discrimination specifically.

Our contact person for individuals affected by antisemitism has over forty years of research expertise in Jewish-Christian relations and antisemitism, and is well connected to the Jewish community in Berlin and Israel. You are encouraged to contact him if you are affected by antisemitic discrimination, or if you witness antisemitic discrimination or acts taking place on campus. He also advises university management on the subject.

Over the past few weeks, university management has invited students who have reported feeling unsafe on campus to join the discussion and help Freie Universität respond to the needs of those affected. These discussions are still ongoing and more meetings between university management and those affected by antisemitism are being planned.

Jewish students who experience discrimination are encouraged to contact the Diversity and Antidiscrimination Office. Members of this office have years of professional experience in the field and are well equipped to deal with discrimination and its underlying mechanisms. They have the skills necessary to support and advise those affected by discrimination. The office is also in contact with external specialists who provide expert advice on the issue of antisemitism. In addition, the Diversity and Antidiscrimination Office offers empowerment workshops for students who have experienced racism.

Students can also make use of structures at Freie Universität Berlin that have been specifically established to provide psychological support (support.points).

Additional Measures

Additional measures are currently being planned and expanded upon, for example, regular direct addresses made by those responsible for ensuring security and raising awareness on campus. University management also sends mass emails to all Freie Universität members to raise awareness, and exchanges and coordinates additional preventative measures with other Berlin-based universities and colleges.

University management places great importance on ensuring that antisemitic and discriminatory behavior is documented and monitored. Where applicable, criminal behavior is reported to the authorities.

University management is also working closely together with departmental heads regarding measures and recommendations for combatting antisemitism and racism. They are working to raise awareness of the current legal provisions and regulations in place at Freie Universität Berlin and helping to establish courses and guidance for instructors on dealing with the conflict in the Middle East. As of January 2024, a range of special courses are also being offered for instructors, staff members, and students (as well as students training to become teachers).