Statement: Politically motivated attacks on campus facilities

Dear students and members of the university,

In recent weeks and months, Ruhr University Bochum has experienced a series of break-ins, right-wing extremist graffiti, acts of intimidation, and vandalism—targeting, in particular, institutions that advocate for equality, anti-discrimination, and queer and feminist issues. What makes these incidents especially troubling is their clear political motivation: In several cases, right-wing extremist symbols and codes were left at the scene. As a result, state security authorities are now investigating.

The Rectorate of Ruhr University Bochum condemns these attacks in the strongest possible terms. These are not merely assaults on individual rooms or people; they are attacks on the very values that define our university and our community. Ruhr University Bochum has always been a place that protects and celebrates the freedom and diversity of its members.

Those responsible for these acts represent only a small minority.

Through intimidation and violence, they seek to undermine the open and diverse culture that is the hallmark of Ruhr University. We will not tolerate this. As the university leadership, we are working tirelessly to implement concrete measures to counter these right-wing extremist actions and to restore safety on our campus. But we also need your support. It is up to all of us, as a community, to take a stand against hatred, exclusion, and bigotry, and to stand up for equality, diversity, and anti-discrimination.

We therefore call on everyone to show courage and solidarity with those affected. There is no place for hatred or discrimination at our university.

On behalf of the entire Rectorate of Ruhr University Bochum,

Yours sincerely,

Isolde Karle and Martin Paul