Governance and Leadership
SDG 8: Focus Areas
8.2.3 Employment Policy on Discrimination
Does your university as a body have a policy on ending discrimination in the workplace (including discrimination based on religion, sexuality, gender, age)?
Yes. The University of Bahrain has an institution-wide Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy that prohibits all forms of workplace discrimination. The policy ensures fair and equal treatment for all employees and students regardless of religion, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics. It establishes zero-tolerance toward discrimination and harassment, guarantees transparent and equitable recruitment and promotion processes, and ensures safe, respectful, and inclusive campus environments. The policy outlines clear responsibilities for senior management, HR, and academic units, with the Equal Opportunities Committee mandated to monitor compliance, address violations, and report directly to the President.
University of Bahrain’s Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
1. Definitions
| University: | University of Bahrain |
| President: | University President |
| Senior Management: | The University President, Vice Presidents, the General Director, Deans, Department Managers, Heads of Academic Departments, and Academic Staff holding administrative positions. |
| Equality: | Ensuring equal opportunities and fair treatment for all individuals without discrimination. |
| Gender Equality: | Fair treatment, access to resources, and opportunities for all individuals. |
| Diversity: | The recognition and acceptance of individual differences. |
| Inclusion: | Creating an environment where all individuals feel welcomed and respected. |
| Discrimination: | Any unfair or exclusionary treatment based on protected characteristics. |
| Stakeholders: | All individuals or entities affected by or contributing to the policy. |
| People with Special Needs: | Individuals with impairments requiring support or facilities. |
| Integration: | Ensuring equal participation and representation of all individuals. |
| Gender Pay Gap: | The difference in earnings between men and women doing work of equal value. |
| Equal Opportunities Committee: | Committee monitoring gender equality and reporting to the President. |
2 Policy Purpose
This policy aims to foster a culture of equality, gender equality, diversity, and inclusion within the University.
This policy serves as an internal guiding document outlining the vision and processes that promote these principles.
3. Policy Scope
This policy applies to all University members and all related processes, including recruitment, promotion, training, admissions, and campus interactions.
4. Policy Statement
4.1 The University is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion.
4.1.1 Non-Discrimination: Zero tolerance toward discrimination or stereotyping.
4.1.2 Transparency: Fair and open processes.
4.1.3 Equitable Representation: Balanced participation of men and women.
4.1.4 Accountability: Monitoring gender equality and corrective actions.
4.1.5 Privacy and Data Protection: Compliance with Personal Data Protection Law.
4.1.6 Safety and Dignity: Ensuring an environment free from harassment.
4.2 Organizational units must promote equality, combat discrimination, and ensure an inclusive environment.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
5.1 Senior Management: Lead efforts toward equality and allocate resources.
5.2 Human Resources Department: Support equality in recruitment and monitor compliance.
5.3 Faculty & Staff: Promote respect and equal opportunity.
5.4 Students: Respect others and support inclusion.
5.5 Deanship of Student Affairs: Support students and address complaints.
5.6 Communication Directorate: Promote gender equality campaigns.
5.7 Equal Opportunities Committee: Monitor policy, conduct awareness, and report to the President.
5.8 Sustainability Committee: Collect data and prepare THE Impact Report.
6. Policy Procedures
6.1 Recruitment, Promotion, and Admissions: Ensure fairness, transparency, and diversity.
6.2 Education and Training: Provide inclusive curricula and regular training.
6.3 Safe and Inclusive Environment: Report harassment; ensure support.
6.4 Reporting and Investigation: Handle complaints with transparency.
6.5 Access and Facilities: Guarantee accessibility.
6.6 Awareness and Engagement: Implement awareness programs and encourage student involvement.
7. Compliance
Violations will result in legal and administrative measures. Reports are handled confidentially.
8. Contact Information
For assistance, contact the General Director of Administrative Services.
Email: dgas@uob.edu.bh
Download: University of Bahrain’s Gender Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy
