Why did you become a confidential counsellor?
‘I became a professor, partly due to talent, but also to the environment and the people I have met along the way. I know how crucial it is to have a good breeding ground where you can develop in a pleasant and safe manner. And there are places where that still isn’t the case. I am eager to help change that.’
Due to my own background, I frequently receive reports from international staff and students. For them, it’s often difficult to recognize inappropriate behavior as such. The consequence is that they only come to me after (too) much has already happened. This means that you need to address what constitutes inappropriate behavior, what can be done about it, and where people can turn for help, even before issues escalate.’
What are types of issues people can turn to you and your colleagues for?
‘We receive reports regarding issues such as bullying, discrimination, aggression, and harassment. We’re not mediators in resolving problems, but we do support those making reports and provide them with tools and options to address the issue themselves. This often gives the reporter new insights and possibilities, and they often go on to test whether it works.
Many cases revolve around communication, listening to someone and responding appropriately. Some people feel quickly attacked during conversations and adopt a defensive stance. A good and open conversation often resolves a lot. In such discussions, it’s important not only to express what happened but also how it made you feel. For example: “Hey, you crossed my boundaries, and now I’m going home with a bad feeling.” This gives the other person the opportunity to respond, like: “I didn’t realize our conversation made you feel this way. I’m sorry for that. How can we do it differently?”’
Have people become more sensitive, or is more coming to light now?
‘I find it hard to pinpoint exactly where the problem lies. I do think that people, partly due to the large-scale issues that have made the news, are becoming more aware of what is happening and what is unacceptable. Furthermore, movements like Black Lives Matter have also raised this awareness. Additionally, we are now dealing with large conflicts between Russia and Ukraine, and Israel and Palestine. These issues reveal new power dynamics and carry significant emotional weight. Our sensitivity to these matters has become broader.
I think we need to become more skilled in our communication techniques and be more aware of sensitivities. Especially because we are a highly diverse university and aim to remain so. The many cultures, backgrounds, differences, and customs require us to be considerate of each other. We also need to be more discerning about who we appoint to leadership positions, as leaders play a crucial role and set an example when it comes to social safety.’
