Statement on gender-neutral language (as at: 22.04.2021)

University of Kassel wants to commission a legal opinion on the consideration of gender-equitable language in the assessment of examinations

The topic of the use of gender-equitable language in the specific context of the assessment of examination results touches on a sensitive area of examination law that has not yet been conclusively assessed in legal terms. The University of Kassel wants to deal with different legal assessments and also with legal concerns expressed by various parties on an issue in which different positions have to be weighed up and in which a final legal clarification is still pending.

Even though there have been no rules and guidelines to date, only indications, the University of Kassel is keen to establish greater legal certainty on the issues in question. To this end, it is intended to commission an external expert opinion on examination law in order to clarify the open questions on the use of gender-equitable language in examinations more clearly. Pending further legal clarification, the information on the use of gender-equitable language as an assessment criterion in written examinations, seminar papers and assignments will be taken offline on the website of the Equal Opportunities Office for the time being. In view of the need for further assessment, lecturers are advised for the time being not to include this aspect in the assessment of examinations.

University President Prof. Finkeldey emphasizes that this step does not change the university's stance on the topic of gender-equitable language per se: "The University of Kassel remains fully convinced that gender-equitable language, alongside many other measures for equality and diversity, contributes to counteracting and reducing discrimination."

Equal Opportunities Officer Dr. Sylke Ernst adds: "I have observed a great awareness of the importance of gender-equitable language and the Equal Opportunities Office receives many inquiries about how gender-equitable language can be used effectively. The tips we give are not guidelines, but rather food for thought based on current scientific findings. One thing is clear: language has always been dynamic and interacts with social developments."