For Inclusion, Academic Freedom and Fundamental Democratic Values
Standing for inclusion and academic freedom: In its guiding principles, the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at TU Dortmund commits itself to fundamental democratic values and to the responsibility of academic work in a diverse society.
As the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, we are committed to an inclusive society in which all people – regardless of disability and/or other grounds for discrimination (e.g., origin of birth, living circumstances, religion, sexual orientation, or gender) – can participate on an equal basis. Our academic work is based on openness, diversity, and respect for human dignity.
We are concerned about developments in society and politics that aim to exclude and devalue people with disabilities and other marginalised groups. These tendencies contradict the fundamental values of democracy, science, and participation – and jeopardize in particular the rights of those who are already structurally disadvantaged.
As rehabilitation scientists, we bear a historical responsibility. The history of disenfranchisement, exclusion, and murder of people with disabilities obliges us all the more to stand up for human rights, diversity, and the protection of all people.
We see it as our duty to advocate for social cohesion, human rights, and free, critical science. We stand for respect, dialogue, and fairness in research and teaching.
Dortmund, December 10, 2025