Metropolia's Principles for a safer space

Together, we are building a university community where everyone can be themselves and feel valued. The principles for a safer place are our shared approach to creating an environment that feels as safe as possible for everyone, in every situation. These principles are binding for all of us, and they guide us towards actively promoting equality in everyday life.

Openness and learning

• We ask questions, make mistakes and learn – it is allowed and an essential part of growing together.
• We understand that no one needs to know everything in advance – every encounter is an opportunity to develop.
• We listen to one another actively and welcome different perspectives.
• We receive feedback constructively and use feedback to improve our actions.

Respect

• We treat all people with dignity and equality regardless of their background, identity or life situation.
• We avoid making assumptions about others’ backgrounds or identities.
• We value diversity and honour everyone’s right to self-determination.

Making space

• We respect each other’s personal space and the right to set boundaries.
• We avoid inappropriate looks, comments and physical contact.
• We ensure that everyone has the opportunity to be seen and heard. We understand that not everyone wants to be equally visible − we give space for people to participate in their own way.

Intervening

• We recognise and address discrimination, harassment and inappropriate behaviour.
• We do not remain passive bystanders. We ensure that anyone subjected to harassment receives support and is not left alone in the situation.
• We aim to resolve issues as they happen − early dialogue helps ease tensions.
• We apologise if we offend others.

Act as follows if you notice someone violating the principles for a safer space:

1. Intervene immediately and respectfully

   It is important that participants themselves address behaviour as quickly and respectfully as possible. If you are able, speak directly to the person involved. Resolving situations as they occur helps prevent tension and misunderstandings.

2. Contact a representative of Metropolia

   If you cannot or do not wish to intervene yourself, report the incident to a representative of the organisation.

   • If the situation involves staff members, contact the occupational safety representative or the occupational safety manager. The matter will be handled according to the internal occupational safety process.
   • If the situation involves students, contact the harassment contact persons.

For staff:

• Contact your supervisor or an occupational safety representative. You can find the occupational safety representatives for each campus on the staff intranet OMA.
• In teaching situations: contact Director of School of Wellbeing. You can find contact information on OMA.

For students:

• By email: hairinta [at] metkaweb.fi (hairinta[at]metkaweb[dot]fi)
• Using the “Contact in case of harassment” form:
  https://metkaweb.fi/palvelut/hairinta/