Bullying

Bullying is when one or several people are subjected repeatedly and over a long period to negative actions of another person or group of people and are deliberately harmed as a result. Bullying often involves an imbalance of power. The bullies are often in a position of power and can therefore regularly and systematically exploit their power over people who have less power. Bullying may be expressed by humiliating or demeaning actions, harassment, and even criminal acts. Anyone can find themselves the target of bullying, and it can be found in all areas of life. At work, it may be between members of staff, but it may also come from superiors. This may lead to those affected resigning, risking unemployment and a loss of earnings, or even having to enter early retirement.

Anyone affected by bullying ought to urgently seek professional help and advice as soon as possible. At FAU, members of staff can consult the Staff Council (only available in German), or turn to the Office of Equality and Diversity for initial or referral advice.

Further information on the legal situation in the case of harassment or violence at the workplace is available from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs, for example on the Act against Violence and Harassment at Work (Gesetz über die Beseitigung von Gewalt und Belästigung in der Arbeitswelt, only available in German).

Sources: Aktiv gegen Diskriminierung; Bavarian Ministry of Education