Events & Campaigns for Tolerance & Diversity at Ruhr University Bochum

When: June 23 & July 1, 14 and 15, 2026

Where? Art collections of Ruhr University Bochum

For whom? All members of Ruhr University Bochum and the interested public

Description: The occasion for the series of talks by the Institute of Art History at Ruhr University Bochum is Manifesta 16, which will take place in the Ruhr region from June 21 to October 4, 2026. First held in Rotterdam in 1996, the "nomadic" biennial was formed against the backdrop of the political upheavals in Europe after 1989. In its early editions in particular, aspects of democratization and relations between East and West were central and combined with the aim of strengthening cultural diversity and transnational cohesion by promoting young artists. Three decades after its founding and a simultaneous "biennialization", critical questions about organizational restructuring, gentrification and sustainability are increasingly coming to the fore today. In times of multiple crises, characterized by authoritarian tendencies, wars, climate change, social inequality and housing shortages, actors from theory and practice will use historical and contemporary examples to discuss the ambivalent role of biennials and comparable major events in moments of structural and political change.

Offered by: Art collections of Ruhr University Bochum and the Institute of Art History of Ruhr University Bochum

Further information: Program

When? Thursday, September 3, 2026 from 12.30 p.m. to 2 p.m

Where? Location after registration

For whom? All members of Ruhr University Bochum

Description: In an increasingly digitalized world, it is important to understand the role of digital technologies in democratic societies. In her lecture, Dr.-Ing. Lea Schönberger will shed light on the design of technical systems, platforms and algorithms and show how they are linked to power, participation and social design. Topics such as algorithmic distortions, disinformation and digital dependencies will be addressed, as well as possible courses of action to counter these developments both at a societal level and in individual actions.

Offered by: Department of Strategic Personnel and Talent Development (→ Contact)

Further information: Lecture description & registration

When: October 22, 2026 from 2 to 6.30 p.m

For whom? Lecturers, administrative staff and event managers at UniverCity

Description: The cross-institutional workshop provides confidence in dealing with positions that threaten democracy in the university and academic context. It offers orientation, practical knowledge and exchange in three modules.

Offered by: UniverCity Bochum

Further information: Program & Registration

When? Various dates

For whom? All employees of Ruhr University Bochum

Description: Various offers in Ruhr University Bochum's Fortbildungsportal (training portal) in the field of strengthening democracy (in German)

Offer from: Fortbildungsportal (training portal)