From polarisation to participation

We find ourselves at a time when political tensions, misinformation, and social divides increasingly spill onto university campuses across Europe and beyond. Higher education institutions are trying to respond to growing polarisation and a need to strengthen democratic culture. But how can the foundations for constructive dialogue be secured on our campuses? What’s involved in equipping future citizens with the skills to engage constructively? And how do institutions remain resilient in a rapidly shifting world?

In this EAIE podcast episode, host Laura Rumbley speaks with Tatiana Zimenkova, Vice President for Internationalisation and Diversity at the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences (Germany), and Arend Hardorff, member of the Executive Board of The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS; the Netherlands). They discuss the real-world challenges facing higher education institutions eager to foster space for respectful, reasoned conversations on campus amid global conflicts, rising populism, and questions about academic freedom, as well as the responsibility HEIs feel to create safe, inclusive spaces for dialogue. Be sure to tune in to hear about the good practices implemented at these two institutions, how to engage ‘the silent middle' and what these speakers recommend to others eager to address, and ideally reduce, polarisation on campus.

About Tatiana Zimenkova

Professor Dr habil. Tatiana Zimenkova is Vice President for Internationalisation and Diversity at the Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences (Germany), where she is a professor of sociology. She received her doctorate and habilitation in sociology at Bielefeld University. Her goals include further strengthening and developing HSRW’s international character and strategy, as well as increasing visibility and awareness of diversity-related issues. She envisions an inclusive university where each person is empowered and able to achieve their goals. At the same time, her aim is also to enable all members of the university to participate in  decision-making processes and the campus community.

About Arend Hardorff

Arend Hardorff joined the Executive Board at The Hague University of Applied Sciences (the Netherlands) on 1 September 2022. Arend studied Leisure and Tourism Studies at the University of Tilburg. After his studies, he worked as a lecturer and programme manager, and from 2012 to 2018 as Director of the Academy for Leisure at Breda University of Applied Sciences. From August 2018 until August 2022, he was a member of the Executive Board and Dean of Hotelschool The Hague, responsible for Education and Research.