Events & Campaigns for Tolerance & Diversity at Ruhr University Bochum

When? November 10, 11, 12, and 13, 2026

For whom? All members of Ruhr University Bochum

Description: A diverse program of workshops, guided tours, lecture series, and creative formats, focusing on democracy education in everyday school life, the role of history in democracy, artistic and archaeological perspectives on social upheavals, and an examination of forgotten figures such as women in the women’s miners’ movement.

Organized by: Mid-level faculty in cooperation with the student councils and the departments of History, Gender Studies, Social Sciences, Education, and the AStA, coordinated by Dr. Jan Hildenhagen

More info: Program (in German)

When? November 16–20, 2026

Who is it for? All members of Ruhr University Bochum

Description: This event is aimed at countering targeted attacks on critical scholarship and academic freedom and seeks to address these issues head-on: It explores which social and political dynamics are fueling the shift to the right, what role universities play in this—and how we can work together to counteract it.

Organized by: RUB Anti-Discrimination Office

More info: Program

When? Tuesdays from 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. on October 27, November 17, December 15, 2026, as well as on January 19 and February 2, 2027

Where? For more information, visit the Serviceportal for Employees of Ruhr University Bochum (see below)

Who is it for? All employees of Ruhr University Bochum

Description:

​“Democracy Fitness” is an innovative learning and training concept developed in Denmark in 2017 that expands on traditional notions of democracy.

The focus is on ten so-called “democracy muscles,” which include, among others, the ability to compromise, empathy, courage, and active participation. These skills are specifically practiced and strengthened in approximately 30-minute training sessions.

The “Democracy Fitness in the Afternoon” series offers the opportunity to learn about and train two “muscles” at each session. The individual sessions stand alone—meaning you don’t have to attend all of them; instead, you can choose the “muscles” that interest you most.

No registration is required —just stop by and join the workout! However, due to the size of the room, space is limited to 14 people.

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

More info and room details: Serviceportal

Who is it for? All RUB members, the general public

Do drop by – feel free to bring a packed lunch – no registration is required.

Description: These three lunch talks continue the series started in winter semester 25/26. This time, three researchers will each give a 20-minute presentation in exciting public spaces on campus and invite open discussion on questions, ideas and options for action to strengthen democratic culture on campus.

• Democracy and Psychology
  with: Prof. Dr. Christian Gudehus, Social Psychology and Social Anthropology
  When? Tuesday, 3 November 2026, 12.30 pm
  Where? Art Collections of Ruhr University Bochum
  At this appointment, we will meet without a lunch bag to protect the artworks.

• Democracy and Inclusion
  with: Andrea Kaus, Administrative Department of Strategic Personnel and Talent Development
  When? Thursday, 3 December 2026, 12:30 pm
  Where? Foyer of the Administrative Department, Studierendenhaus, Room SH 1/18

• Democracy and Constitutional Law
  with: Prof. Dr. Stefan Huster, Institute for Social and Health Law
  When? Tuesday, 26 January 2027, 12:30 pm
  Where? Foyer NB 03/Süd
  We would like to sincerely thank the Physics and Astronomy student council, who will provide us with coffee and waffles in exchange for a donation.

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

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)