The HES-SO has commissioned MIS Trend research institute to carry out this wide-ranging survey. The survey is an integral part of the measures set out in the HES-SO's Policy Framework Politique-cadre de prévention et de gestion du harcèlement sexuel et sexiste (in French only) to combat the scourge of sexual and sexist harassment, which unfortunately does not stop at the gates of the universities of applied sciences.
This survey will enable us to understand the situation that exists with respect to sexual harassment within HES-SO. It will also provide information on the effectiveness of the systems and measures currently in place to prevent and manage harassment and suggest how they could be strengthened, if necessary.
The data will be collected by MIS Trend through an online survey, to be followed by a series of interviews with individuals. Data will be collected in three languages: French, German and English. Invitations will be sent directly by MIS Trend, which will guarantee secure access, total confidentiality and data protection. HES-SO will only have access to anonymised analyses of data aggregated by MIS Trend, so will never be able to establish a link between responses and the identity of individuals.
The survey is also intended to encourage people within the HES-SO community to speak out. People wishing to report specific situations, whether as victims, targets or witnesses of harassment, as well as people who would like to receive guidance about their own behaviour can contact individuals designated by their institution. Contact details can be found here.