Why a code of conduct?
‘Things still go wrong sometimes,’ says Louise. 'Not always in a visible way, but rather in the so called ‘grey areas’. For example, when a student feels excluded, uncomfortable or not taken seriously. Then you think: ‘This doesn't feel OK, but I don't know what to do with it.’ The code of conduct helps to acknowledge that feeling and is created so that you know: I am allowed to say something about this'.
According to Paula, it is important to have clear frameworks. A code of conduct is not a list of prohibitions, but a guideline for how we treat each other. So that everyone feels welcome and at ease, that's the goal.'
A careful process
Drafting the code of conduct was a careful process, say the students. During the working sessions, codes of conduct from other universities were studied, the existing code of conduct for employees was analysed, and language, tone and content were discussed.
‘On some things, we all quickly agreed,’ says Louise. 'Such as that discrimination never belongs at Radboud University. But other topics required more fine-tuning. Think about whether you should say something about social media use or clothing.'
For Paula, it was valuable that students were actively involved in the process. 'It's nice that our voice matters. As students, we like to think about issues that affect us. Although it sometimes happens, as far as I'm concerned it should be much more frequent and natural for our opinions to be included.'
More than just rules
The end result is not just about what is not allowed. 'The code of conduct also states what we expect from each other: respect, openness, really listening to each other. It has become a positive guideline for how we treat each other as students,’ Paula explains.
Louise adds: ‘And it does not only apply to our campus. We deliberately chose to phrase the text so that it also applies to study trips, social gatherings, or parties. Because what happens there can have an effect on how you feel within the university and your studies.'
The code of conduct also states what we expect from each other: respect, openness, really listening to each other. It has become a positive guideline for how we treat each other as students.
Short, concrete and accessible
One challenge was to keep the code of conduct concise, yet clear. ‘Nobody reads a 20-page document,’ says Louise, laughing. 'But neither should it be so vague that no one knows what is meant by it. It's all about finding the right balance: accessible and concrete.
What message would you like to pass on to other students?
You don't have to know the code of conduct by heart,' says Louise. But having a general idea of what it contains can already provide support. You know: these are the standards and values we share together. Something you can hold each other accountable to.’
Paula mentions a sentence that has stuck with her the most: ‘Be aware of the influence of your behaviour on others.’ ‘If everyone keeps that in mind, that already makes a big difference.’
In addition, Paula thinks it is important that students know where to go. 'If you experience something you can't work out on your own, it should be easy to seek help. With a confidential advisor, for example.'
A first step
Louise and Paula hope the code of conduct will contribute to a positive culture change. ‘This is an important first step,’ says Louise. ‘It may seem small, but it is a necessary foundation: a shared framework of norms and values.’ Paula adds: ‘And above all, a good starting point to get the conversation going.’
The code of conduct for students was launched at the beginning of this academic year. The code of conduct is part of the broader Prevent Care Cure project, through which the university is structurally working to strengthen social safety.
