New expert opinion by Prof. Dr. Ulrike Lembke commissioned by bukof

Speech bans at universities: New expert opinion by Prof. Dr. Ulrike Lembke commissioned by bukof

Gender-inclusive language has been an important issue at Dresden University of Technology (TUD) for years. In 2022, the guide “Dem Geschlecht gerecht” was published, which establishes binding regulations for the central administration and provides basic recommendations for research and teaching on gender-inclusive communication in language and imagery. Further information can be found here.

As a voice for gender equality in the discourse on science and higher education policy, the Federal Conference of Women’s and Equal Opportunity Officers at Universities (bukof) advocates for linguistic diversity. This helps to make different gender identities visible and strengthen the right to equal treatment. Gender-inclusive language is an expression of respect and thus a prerequisite for equal opportunity.

In this context, bukof has responded to the ongoing need for legal expertise and transparency by commissioning a legal opinion from Prof. Dr. Ulrike Lembke. The opinion, titled „Verfassungswidrige Anweisung zur Diskriminierung: Sprachverbote an Hochschulen und die Pflicht zu geschlechtergerechter Sprache“ examines the legal issues surrounding language bans at universities and underscores the constitutional obligation to use gender-inclusive language.

Prof. Dr. Ulrike Lembke is a renowned legal scholar and expert in gender studies. In her analysis, she demonstrates that language bans are not only discriminatory but also unconstitutional. She emphasizes that gender-inclusive language is a central component of the right to equal treatment and of personal rights. The detailed expert opinion also includes a concise summary of the most important findings. The document can be viewed here.

For more information about the work of bukof, please visit this website.