“Code of Conduct”: Living together better
The Rectorate of the University of Münster has approved the Code of Conduct – an overarching document in which the values which unite people at the University and to which the University as an institution is committed are brought together and made transparent. Up to now, these values were to be found scattered over various strategy documents which were drawn up over the years with the involvement of members of the University.
The Code of Conduct augments legal and procedural regulations by emphasising their binding character. For example, the document affirms respect and esteem in our relations with one another, as well as open communication and taking responsibility for our actions. “Shaping the future together” and putting sustainability into practice are further elements of the self-image which the University of Münster has. Every unit of the organization – for example faculties, institutes or support departments – can flesh out these values for themselves in the way they choose to practice them.
In future, the Code of Conduct will be handed out to new staff members and students as part of the onboarding process. It is also part of the onboarding training entitled “The University and I” provided for new members of staff. In addition, there is a link to the Code in the Intranet in the checklists/documents for new employees.
The Compliance Guide, now published for the first time, also includes the Code of Conduct. It aims to give guidance to employees on behaviour which complies with the law and with our values, and it provides practical, relevant assistance on how to handle important rules and regulations, with details of people to contact and links relating to the contents. The examples included cover good scientific practice, animal welfare, preventing corruption, expenditure on entertainment and gifts, and information security.