The University Ombudsperson's role
The University Ombudsperson ensures that every member of the university is treated fairly and impartially. They support anyone who feels they have been treated unfairly or discriminated against by someone acting on behalf of the university. The University Ombudsperson offers guidance on how to assert your rights and defend your interests or point of view, and helps obtain answers from the university. They also step in to help find solutions and prevent situations from escalating or stalling.
More broadly, the University Ombudsperson makes recommendations to the university governing bodies to improve the way the university protects the rights of its community. The Ombudsperson promotes fairness and justice, challenges indifference and a culture of silence, and educates students on their rights and responsibilities.
Elected by the university’s Board of Trustees, the Ombudsperson holds no hierarchical position within the University of Strasbourg. In their role, they have full independence and freedom to act, including in relation to the President of the University, and they report to the Board of Trustees once a year.
When to contact the University Ombudsperson
If you encounter a situation that seems unfair in your university activities, you should first try to resolve it with those involved. If the issue continues, you can contact the University Ombudsperson. The Ombudsperson's support does not replace the usual procedures (administrative or legal). If a formal complaint is already in progress, the University Ombudsperson can no longer intervene.
