For the third time, Swiss universities and research institutions are organizing the Sexual Harassment Awareness Day (SHAD) on April 29, 2025, to promote a university environment free from harassment. EPFL is contributing to this important initiative with two forum theater performances, open to the entire EPFL community.
Sexism and sexual harassment are a reality in the academic landscape. To prevent and deal with sexual harassment in our study and work environments, we need to reflect on our own behavior, in an evolving society, respect the boundaries of others and take responsibility for ourselves and our fellow colleagues, staff, and students. Reacting when witnessing sexism or harassment is however anything but easy. The actions implemented at EPFL aim to provide a few tools.
National awareness day on April 29
For all events organized by Swiss universities, please refer to the national campaign website. Some events can be attended online, such as the lecture by Dr. Bontu Lucie Guschke, promoted by the University of Bern, the coordinator of the day in 2025.
National Coordination
Website listing all programs at Swiss universities
Online Conference
By Dr. Bontu Lucie Guschke, specialist in diversity issues
EPFL position statements
Ines Ariceta, Director a.i. of the Well-being and Inclusion (WINC) domain, Trust and Support Network (TSN) Lead, and Marianne Wannier, Vice President for Human Development (VPH), share a message on the occasion of SHAD 2025.
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Events at EPFL
Theater Forum at EPFL
The play “Coffee Machine” is based on research conducted by Dr. Kléa Faniko at the University of Geneva. It presents scenes of “ordinary sexism” experienced in the academic context, performed by professional actors, and invites specta(c)tors to enter the stage to help the scenario evolve. Two performances are planned, one on May 8 in French, another one on May 27 in English. Members of the student body, administrative and technical staff, mid-level faculty, and professorial staff are all invited to participate.
May 8, 2025
In French
May 27, 2025
In English
2024 national video
With statements from various stakeholders engaged in the fight against harassment in Swiss higher education institutions.
2023 national video
With statements from all the rectors and presidents of Swiss higher education institutions.
2024 archives
“Sexual harassment victims often blame themselves”
On 25 April, Swiss universities will hold their second annual Sexual Harassment Awareness Day – the perfect opportunity for us at EPFL to assess how we’re doing in this area, one year after we introduced a new directive on psychosocial risks.
2024 poster campaign
Contact
SHAD coordination at EPFL:
Ines Ariceta, Director a.i. of the Well-being and Inclusion (WINC) domain, Trust and Support Network (TSN) Lead, with the support the Equal Opportunity Office Team