This lecture was given as part of the German Diversity Days at the University of Hamburg on 8 June 2026.
Last year, the Leopoldina (Nationale Akademie der Wissenschaften [German National Academy of Sciences]) described gender equality as a “gesellschaftlichen Nebenzweck“ (secondary social objective). The discussion paper criticises the “implementation of social values” within the sciences, arguing that it leads to bureaucratisation. By proposing ways to reduce bureaucracy, they simultaneously undermine the legitimacy of gender equality and diversity policies, effectively advocating for their dismantling. Diversity management and equality have always been subject to attacks, including at universities. In my talk, I explored the novel aspects of the current discourse on backlash in universities, shared insights from a survey of equality officers at German universities and analysed the political situation in several federal states. I then discussed with the participants ways in which we can counter the backlash in universities.
Letzte Änderung: 11. June 2026