Version: 2 Creation date: 1988 Last review date: 19 December 2022
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish a safe, transparent, and confidential process for members of the Near East University community to report instances of discrimination and to ensure that such reports are handled with due care and diligence. This policy also aims to protect those who report discrimination from any form of retaliation or disadvantage in their educational or employment status within the university.
2. Scope
This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff, contractors, and visitors to Near East University. It covers all forms of discrimination, including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and sexual orientation, and it extends to all aspects of educational and employment opportunities within the university.
3. Definitions
3.1 Discrimination: Unfair or prejudicial treatment of individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected under applicable local, national, or international law.
3.2. Reporter: An individual who, acting in good faith, reports an instance of discrimination or provides information during an investigation into such reports.
3.3. Retaliation: Any adverse action taken against a Reporter as a consequence of their report of discrimination or participation in the investigation of a discrimination report.
3.4. Confidentiality: The assurance that the identity of the Reporter and the information provided will be kept private to the extent possible, consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation.
4.Protection for Reporters of Discrimination
Near East University is committed to creating an environment where all individuals feel safe to report discrimination without fear of reprisal. The university strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports discrimination or participates in an investigation of such a report. This protection includes, but is not limited to, protection from harassment, adverse employment or educational consequences, and any form of intimidation. The university will take all necessary steps to ensure that Reporters are protected from retaliation and will treat any instances of retaliation as a serious violation of university policy, subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or expulsion.
5.Reporting Procedures
5.1. Initial Reporting: Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or have witnessed discriminatory behavior are encouraged to report such incidents as soon as possible. Reports can be made to the University Rectorate.
5.2. Formal Complaint: If a Reporter wishes to file a formal complaint, they must submit a written account of the incident(s) to the Rectorate. The written complaint should include details such as the date, time, location, individuals involved, and any witnesses.
5.3. Anonymous Reporting: The university provides a mechanism for anonymous reporting; however, Reporters should be aware that anonymity may limit the university's ability to fully investigate the claim.
5.4. Advice and Support: Individuals seeking to make a report may also seek advice and support from Rectorate before making a formal complaint.
6.Investigation Procedures
Upon receipt of a report of discrimination, the Rectorate will take the following actions:
Acknowledge Receipt: Provide timely acknowledgment of the receipt of the report to the Reporter.
Assessment: Conduct an initial assessment of the report to determine the appropriate course of action.
Investigation: If warranted, initiate an investigation into the matter, which will be conducted promptly and with due regard for confidentiality.
Findings: Make a determination based on the evidence gathered. The university will communicate the findings and any subsequent actions to be taken to the Reporter and the accused party, as appropriate.
Resolution: Take appropriate measures to resolve the situation, which may include mediation, training, policy changes, disciplinary action, or other remedies.
7.Confidentiality
Near East University will maintain the confidentiality of all reports of discrimination to the extent possible and in accordance with applicable law. The identity of Reporters, witnesses, and the accused will be protected throughout the investigation process. Information will only be disclosed to individuals who have a legitimate need to know in order to conduct a thorough and fair investigation.
8.Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed on an annual basis, or more frequently if necessary, to ensure that it remains effective and aligned with the university's commitment to a discrimination-free environment. Near East University Rectorate is responsible for overseeing this review and for implementing updates to the policy as required.