In recent years, the hostility towards research institutions and their members unfortunately is on the rise. This manifests mainly in the form of insulting comments, shitstorms, harassment or threats. The most common form is derogatory criticism that aims to put the competence of experts in doubt. This could also affect university members who are not involved in research – for instance, if your position or your work are publicly visible.

As researchers you may engage with the public in various ways. For example, speaking as expert guests in the media or as science communicators on your own online channels. Or, as members of our university, you may be directly or indirectly involved in publicly visible projects, which might become embedded in controversial debates.

What to do when you are affected?

Are you verbally attacked in relation to your position at the university? Are you concerned that your professional work might become a target of disrespectful discussions?

The Scicomm Support provides a contact point in case of attacks and unobjective conflicts in science communication in German-speaking countries. Its core offer is a free-of-charge phone helpline for people affected.

• Call the helpline:
  0157 923 448 04
  7 a.m. – 10 p.m., 7 days a week
• More info at scicomm-support.de/en

Scicomm Support also offers guidelines, training and workshops. The project was initiated by the two associations Bundesverband Hochschulkommunikation and Wissenschaft im Dialog.

Please also feel free to contact the Head of your organisational unit or the the management of the Press & Communication department for confidential advice and support.