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07/18/2017 | Wissenschaftliche Standpunkte

Statement on controversial remarks made by a university member

Various media have reported on statements made by Prof. Dr. Ulrich Kutschera. The university management has taken a position on this.

"We were not and are not allowed to comment on personnel law issues - these are to be treated confidentially without exception. This also applies in this case. However, we can assure you that the Executive Board of the University of Kassel is fully aware of the duties and rights of civil servants at the university, as well as the fact that offensive and discriminatory statements do not belong at our university, regardless of who makes them. We will take the statement of Science Minister Boris Rhein into account in our further considerations.

The President of the University of Kassel, Prof. Dr. Finkeldey, states: "In the last few days, I have received many critical and even horrified reactions, which I can understand only too well. No statements should be made by members of the university that make people feel hurt and devalued."

Professors can claim not only freedom of opinion for their statements, but also freedom of science, which the Basic Law defines very broadly. The Presidential Board must accept this even if statements contradict the position of the university management. The Presidential Board is convinced that the positions expressed by Mr. Kutschera in the interview have no support in the university, on the contrary. The Presidential Board takes the statements as an opportunity to once again remind everyone of the importance of treating each other with respect and of choosing words appropriately in public statements. This university and the university management have always made it clear that they respect different lifestyles and see diversity as an asset to the university."