BAU Non-Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Prevention Policy
Bahçeşehir University (BAU) is committed to maintaining an environment that promotes appropriate behavior and respect for individual values among all members of its community. In line with this commitment, BAU has implemented this Non-Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Policy, aiming to ensure an atmosphere free from discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and/or sexual assault at every level of the institution.
Mutual respect among faculty, students, staff, and administrators is a cornerstone of the educational process, and BAU takes the utmost care to ensure that this respect is never undermined. The university seeks to provide a safe and healthy learning and working environment for every individual in our community, regardless of race, religion, disability, gender or sexual orientation. In adherence to the Constitution of the Republic of Turkey, which guarantees that "everyone is entitled to their rights and freedoms without discrimination based on language, race, color, gender, political opinion, philosophical belief, religion, or similar grounds," BAU ensures the protection of these rights for all.
Discrimination and Harassment Prohibited
Discrimination or harassment based on race, gender, sexual identity or expression, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, ethnic origin, disability, veteran or military status, pregnancy, genetic information, marital status, or citizenship, or any other legally protected category, is illegal and contrary to the values and purposes of the university. Such discrimination or harassment violates BAU policy and will not be tolerated.
BAU is committed to providing an inclusive educational and employment environment that values individuals of different backgrounds and experiences. In accordance with this commitment, BAU expects all university employees and students to adhere to behavior standards required by law and those imposed by BAU regarding discrimination and harassment.
Harassment-Free Environment
BAU promises an environment where individuals feel safe and secure from harassment. Harassment involves behaviors that are hostile or life-threatening to an individual. It is a violation of human rights and may constitute a punishable offense. BAU is committed to ensuring that no one is subjected to discrimination based on race, gender, ethnic origin, citizenship, religion, age, disability, or other personal characteristics.
BAU prohibits discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and retaliation against students, employees, interns, vendors, and other third parties involved with the university. Such actions are considered forms of misconduct, and sanctions will be imposed on those found responsible for such misconduct. Employees or students who believe they have been subject to discrimination, harassment (including sexual harassment), retaliation, or sexual assault, or who have witnessed such behavior, are required to report it immediately to the relevant authorities (HR Department, Legal Affairs Office, Office of the Dean of Students, or Sexual Harassment Prevention Unit). There is no time limitation for filing a complaint under this policy; however, delay in reporting may affect the ability to investigate and resolve an incident fairly. For this reason, complainants are encouraged to report incidents as soon as possible.
Investigation and Corrective Measures
The university may investigate any behavior that violates this policy, regardless of whether a complaint has been filed, and take corrective action as appropriate. Relevant units and administrators are expected to handle such matters swiftly and appropriately.
BAU has implemented this Non-Discrimination and Harassment Prevention Policy to foster a fair and equitable learning and working environment free from discrimination in any program or activity. In this regard, the BAU Equity and Inclusion Committee has been established, which is responsible for conducting monitoring and reporting activities. Additionally, all employees, students, and affiliated third parties are obligated to help maintain a harassment-free work and learning environment.
This policy is designed to ensure a fair and reliable process for determining whether a violation has occurred. If a violation is found, the university will implement prompt and effective remedies designed to stop the harassment, prevent its recurrence, and eliminate its effects. Violations of this harassment policy by BAU employees will be considered misconduct and may result in institutional sanctions, including possible termination of employment.
Support and Confidentiality
BAU recognizes that individuals reporting harassment may wish to discuss the incident with assurances of confidentiality. There are several confidential resources available to assist complainants. The university will strive to protect confidentiality to the fullest extent possible under applicable laws while addressing issues effectively and fairly.
Prohibition of Retaliation
Victims have the right to report harassment without fear of retaliation. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, or reprisals. Retaliation occurs when adverse actions are taken against an individual for engaging in legally protected activities or activities protected under this policy. BAU strictly prohibits any form of retaliation against individuals who report harassment, assist someone with a report, or participate in any part of the investigation or resolution of a report.
In addition, BAU ensures that no individual reporting discrimination or harassment will face any educational or employment disadvantage. This includes protection from academic penalties, professional setbacks, or dismissal due to their involvement in reporting or investigating incidents of discrimination or harassment. This protection applies to students, staff, and faculty members equally, aligning with BAU's dedication to creating a secure and supportive environment for all members of its community.
Definitions
Discrimination: Discrimination occurs when an individual or group is treated unfavorably or denied rights, opportunities, or resources based on characteristics such as race, gender, age, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other legally protected category. Discrimination may involve direct actions (such as refusing to hire or promote someone based on their race) or indirect actions (such as policies or practices that disproportionately affect certain groups). At BAU, discrimination in any form is strictly prohibited, whether it is in the educational, employment, or any other aspect of university life. Examples of discrimination include, but are not limited to, the following:
Harassment: Harassment is defined as unwelcome behavior based on an individual’s race, gender, sexual identity, creed, religion, national origin, disability, or other protected characteristic. It may include verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct that demeans, threatens, or offends a person and creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. Examples include but are not limited to:
Retaliation: Any adverse employment or educational action taken against a person because of their participation in a complaint or investigation of discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct. This includes actions such as demotion, termination, reduction in pay, or academic penalties against individuals who report or assist in the reporting or investigation of discrimination or harassment.
Sexual Harassment: Sexual harassment is a form of harassment that involves unwanted and inappropriate sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical behavior of a sexual nature.
This policy is designed to ensure that Bahçeşehir University remains a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable space for all, reinforcing its commitment to providing a respectful and supportive environment for every individual.
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