Document of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Academic Freedom

As emphasized in the Magna Charta Universitatum, a document that was originally signed in 1988 by 388 rectors from all over Europe and beyond, there is an inseparable link between the values of equality, diversity and inclusion, and academic freedom. The purpose of this document is to declare the commitment of Izmir University of Economics to both the values of equality and diversity and the principle of academic freedom, which is a prerequisite for the University to achieve its mission.

Respecting equality, diversity, inclusion, differences, and human dignity are the basic ethical values of Izmir University of Economics. The academic and administrative staff, and students of Izmir University of Economics are committed to fostering an inclusive, fair and pluralistic learning, working and living environment. The University, in line with this understanding, declares that it rejects all forms of discrimination, and that it maintains the responsibility to contribute to the creation and preservation of an academic culture based on ethical values.

Academic freedom, which we define as the mission of Izmir University of Economics, is essential to inspiring individuals who question and think critically, and contribute to science with original research. The production, sharing and application of knowledge depend on the free expression of varying perspectives. Academic freedom is the lifeblood of any university, which is a learning and research environment free from discrimination, and it remains the prerequisite for fulfilling its responsibilities towards society. Creating a barrier-free and liberal learning and research culture for the academic staff and students is an integral part of the University's mission, based on excellence and innovation. Therefore, we are strongly committed to academic freedom, which is a universal principle in all of our teaching and research activities.

Izmir University of Economics' educational approach is to cultivate individuals who research, question, produce, share, think freely, and are responsible.

In this context, the education policy includes activities that:

1. Conduct educational processes with a participatory and inclusive approach, based on free thought, a critical perspective, and individual autonomy,
2. Present the conceptual framework of disciplines with core courses by adopting diversity in course programs, and allow students to develop their own perspectives with specialization and elective courses,
3. Anticipate the need for transformation in education by considering scientific and technological developments and social changes, and conduct research and education in a mutually supportive manner,
4. Encourage students' active participation in the learning process by using advanced educational technologies and participatory educational techniques,
5. Offer personalized education opportunities by developing digital micro-learning systems to support students' academic, social, and professional development,
6. Create mechanisms to support workplace learning through practical experience,
7. Design micro-credential training to enhance students' employability in the competitive labor market by developing their competency and research skills.
8. Effectively utilize distance education opportunities to enrich educational processes and diversify the learning experience with face-to-face and online activities,
9. Strengthen cultural, sports, and guidance services to support students' academic, physical, and psycho-social well-being,
10. Cultivate globally competitive individuals by developing international collaborations,
11. Integrate communication between nature and the individual into educational processes by adopting a holistic approach to the ecosystem, and embrace the ideal of lifelong learning.

Izmir University of Economics' research policy has been established to transform the existing knowledge production in the fields of research, education, and societal contribution by providing creative and innovative contributions through qualified and high-impact studies and outputs.

In this context, the research policy includes activities that:

1. Aim to establish new laboratories and research centers to strengthen the research infrastructure, create a qualified human resource, and ensure its sustainability,
2. Encourage increasing the number of researches focusing on the priority areas of the University, the region, and the country,
3. Prioritize the development of high-impact scientific studies by supporting interdisciplinary research,
4. Aim to increase the University's scientific visibility by encouraging national and international research collaborations,
5. Aim to ensure that scientific research outputs contribute to society at local and global levels by developing public and private sector collaborations,
6. Encourage the transformation of research results into economic value by supporting intellectual property rights and technology transfer processes,
7. Provide training and funding opportunities for the development of academics by training research potential master's and doctoral students.

The social contribution policy of Izmir University of Economics includes activities that:

1. Aim to provide strong social contributions to support sustainability, enhance economic and social welfare, reduce inequalities, improve public health, and preserve cultural heritage,
2. Aim to expand social contribution activities from our campus to our neighborhood, our city, our country, and ultimately to the entire world,
3. Prioritize carrying out activities aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,
4. Conduct social contribution activities in collaboration with non-governmental organizations, local governments, and public institutions, adopting an inclusive approach that ensures the participation of all stakeholders,
5. Aim to produce solutions to social problems and provide benefits to society through the generation of high-impact knowledge,
6. Aim to create a sustainable and transformative impact through effective coordination of the University's social contribution activities,
7. Prioritize conducting interdisciplinary studies in areas identified based on social needs,
8. Value not only the production of high-impact knowledge but also sharing this knowledge with society and promoting science.

Izmir University of Economics adopts the principle of strengthening its mission of education, knowledge production, and social contribution through international collaborations and connections. Our University supports the development of global and cultural competencies of students, faculty, and administrative personnel with an equitable and fair approach.

In this context, the internationalization policy includes activities that:

1. Structure educational programs to support intercultural competencies (such as language proficiency, cultural diversity and empathy, communication and collaboration, critical and creative thinking, digital literacy, social responsibility and sustainability, adaptability and flexibility, etc.) with the aim of cultivating individuals with a global perspective,
2. Encourage students, academics, and administrative staff to gain international experience by increasing mobility,
3. Implement support mechanisms to facilitate the integration of international students,
4. Plan initiatives to increase the number of qualified international students,
5. Support the employment of international academics through sustainable financial models,
6. Promote international joint research projects and academic publications,
7. Aim to develop joint undergraduate and graduate programs and strengthen international partnerships,
8. Aim to enhance the University's international visibility and create global impact.

Izmir University of Economics adopts a total quality management approach that aims to exceed the expectations of internal and external stakeholders, make data-driven decisions, inform and empower its employees, and continuously improve all processes through teamwork, in order to fulfill its duties of education, knowledge production, and social contribution in line with universal academic principles and values.

In this context, the quality policy includes activities that:

1. Conduct all activities at the University in line with its mission, vision, values, and strategic objectives,
2. Establish an effective quality assurance system to monitor and evaluate the quality of education, learning, knowledge production, and social contribution processes,
3. Monitor and evaluate the Strategic Plan, prepared with stakeholder participation, through a performance management system regularly,
4. Process the data from various sources to be used in monitoring and evaluation processes,
5. Review of policies, processes, and operations by considering regular stakeholder feedback and the continuous improvement of service quality,
6. Ensure the involvement of students, academic staff, administrative staff, and external stakeholders in quality assurance processes,
7. Ensure the alignment of the University's policies, processes, and operations with national and international standards and regulations, as well as the encouragement of national and (in line with the resources) international accreditations of academic programs,
8. Develop and sustain a quality assurance system aimed at establishing clear and effective communication channels with all stakeholders through the determination of internal and external communication strategies.

The management policy of Izmir University of Economics is built on a model that prioritizes stakeholder participation in learning-oriented and innovative education, high-impact knowledge production, and strong social contribution activities, while supporting sustainable and transformative change.

Our management policy aims to:

1. Bring the University’s core values (academic freedom, equity, reliability, accountability and transparency, creativity and innovation, health, well-being, and solidarity) to life by embedding them into all processes as “living values,”
2. Integrate principles of good governance (participation, solution-oriented approaches, efficiency, rule of law, ethical values, competence, human rights, cultural diversity, and social cohesion) into the institutional culture and ensure they are actively and visibly applied in all processes,
3. Develop data-based decision-making processes through effective management information systems,
4. Create a healthy and sustainable campus environment,
5. Ensure accessibility to management levels by establishing effective internal communication channels,
6. Prioritize the psychosocial well-being of all internal stakeholders,
7. Establish a quality management system that promotes continuous improvement in all academic and administrative processes.

The Human Resources policy of Izmir University of Economics has been designed with a “people-oriented” approach, aiming to enhance the competencies, job satisfaction, motivation, and institutional commitment of its academic and administrative personnel.

In this context, the human resources policy includes activities that:

1. Carry out recruitment, performance evaluation, appointment, and promotion processes based on fair, transparent, and measurable criteria, with the goal of attracting and developing highly qualified and competent academic and administrative personnel,
2. Improve the work environment and strengthen social activities, incentive programs, and participation mechanisms to increase employee engagement and motivation,
3. Provide continuous training and development programs to support the professional and personal growth of employees,
4. Prioritize the principle of equal opportunity by ensuring equal access to opportunities for all employees regardless of language, religion, race, gender, or disability status,
5. Encourage the employment of women, supporting employees with disabilities, and promote the integration of staff from diverse cultural backgrounds,
6. Ensure that employees and stakeholders are well-informed about human resources processes by promoting open communication,
7. Create an innovative and creative work environment by bringing together diverse perspectives and experiences, and provide employees with different experiences through domestic and international collaborations,
8. Enhance and continuously improve the effectiveness of human resources management through the use of digital transformation and automation processes.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy document is to prevent all forms of violence and harassment that may occur within our University, to provide support to individuals who encounter such situations, and to establish a safe environment by taking necessary measures.

Scope

This policy covers all students, academic and administrative staff, visitors, and all third parties associated with the University.

Basis

• International Labor Organization “Policy Document against Violence and Harassment in the Workplace”
  • “Policy Document against Violence and Harassment in the Workplace”, International Labour Organization – Ankara, 2022. ISBN: 9789220381687 https://www.ilo.org/wcmsp5/groups/public/---europe/---ro-geneva/---ilo-ankara/documents/publication/wcms_865042.pdf, accessed June 19, 2023
• IUE’s Mission, Vision and Core Values (https://www.ieu.edu.tr/tr/misyon-ve-vizyon) (accessed March 3, 2025)
• “IUE Gender Equality Plan” and in this context the documents “Measures against sexual harassment and gender-based violence” (https://www.ieu.edu.tr/tr/toplumsal-cinsiyet-esitligi-plani-2022-2025 , accessed March 3, 2025)

Definitions

Violence and Harassment: Unacceptable behaviors and practices, or threats thereof, whether single or repeated, that aim at, result in, or are likely to result in physical, psychological, sexual, or economic harm.

Gender Equality: The state of individuals having equal rights, opportunities, and resources regardless of their gender. It expresses the equal participation of women, men, and individuals with different gender identities in areas such as education, health, employment, and political representation without discrimination. This concept aims for equal treatment of individuals not only in terms of legal rights but also within the context of social and cultural norms. Gender equality is a principle of justice and human rights that aims to provide the necessary conditions for everyone to fully realize their potential.

Principles

Izmir University of Economics accepts and commits to:

• providing a decent, safe education, training, and working environment completely free of violence and harassment, and to promoting a zero-tolerance attitude towards all forms of violence and harassment in a manner sensitive to gender equality,
• combatting violence and harassment for everyone and at every stage within the University environment, and to addressing the necessary measures for this purpose with an effective framework based on social dialogue,
• acknowledging that violence and harassment are a health and safety issue, and to conducting risk assessments and create prevention plans with the participation of all employees and students,
• conducting awareness, education, and training activities to prevent the occurrence of violence and harassment within the University environment, and to creating information materials such as brochures and posters,
• establishing effective complaint, investigation, referral, support, and compensation mechanisms that pay attention to confidentiality and privacy, are impartial and reliable, and protect employees against retaliation in cases of violence and harassment,
• sharing communication numbers and other information of support institutions outside the University with employees and students in response to violence and harassment, and to making the necessary referrals while respecting the confidentiality and privacy of employees and students,
• ensuring that employees and students effectively exercise their rights to obtain information and consultation on issues related to violence and harassment,
• adopting a holistic approach in combating violence and harassment by ensuring that the provisions of the Policy Document are reflected in the corporate culture as part of the understanding of a decent working and university environment,
• carrying out comprehensive, inclusive, and constructive collaborations with public institutions and non-governmental organizations for a working, education, and training environment free of violence and harassment,
• ensuring that the Policy Document is widely distributed to all relevant individuals and explained,
• developing the necessary strategies and create appropriate conditions for informing and educating all employees and students about violence and harassment and the content of the Policy Document.

Complaints and Support Mechanisms

• Application Methods: Individuals who have experienced or witnessed violence or harassment can file a complaint through the official channels determined by our University.
• Support Services: Psychological, medical, and legal support is provided to victims.

Training and Awareness

• Our University will regularly organize training on combating violence and harassment, gender equality, and awareness training for all its members.

Sanctions

• Necessary sanctions will be applied to those involved in acts of violence and harassment in accordance with our University’s disciplinary regulations and relevant legal legislation.

Monitoring and Evaluation

• The effectiveness of this policy document will be reviewed regularly and updated as necessary.

1. Introduction

Izmir University of Economics (IUE) considers sustainability principles as fundamental elements of its corporate mission and vision statements. By addressing environmental, economic, and social sustainability with an integrated approach, the University supports sustainable development in both academic and administrative processes.

This policy has been prepared to guide the University's commitments and actions regarding sustainability. Acting within the framework of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), IUE is committed to building a sustainable future through education, research, campus management, and community engagement.

2. Core Principles

IUE’s sustainability policy is shaped around the following five core principles:

2.1. Integration of Academic Programs and Research

• Incorporating sustainability principles into all academic processes and ensuring that every student is made aware of them.
• Encouraging and funding interdisciplinary sustainability research.
• Developing new courses on climate action, environmental justice, and sustainability.
• Expanding academic-industry collaborations with sustainability-focused projects.
• Supporting open-access publishing and promoting sustainability research.

2.2. Carbon Neutrality and Environmental Responsibility

• Implementing energy efficiency projects across University campuses with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.
• Enhancing waste management processes by adopting zero-waste policies.
• Increasing the use of renewable energy sources on campus.
• Developing projects that promote biodiversity conservation, expand green spaces, and raise environmental awareness.

2.3. Sustainable Campus Life

• Supporting sustainable transportation alternatives on campus, such as bicycle lanes, electric vehicle charging stations, and public transportation incentives.
• Promoting sustainable food options and raising awareness about healthy eating.
• Implementing water-saving measures, such as low-flow fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems, along with awareness campaigns.
• Adopting green building standards and acting in accordance with sustainability criteria in new construction and renovation projects.

2.4. Community Engagement and Social Impact

• Promoting sustainability policies by collaborating with local governments, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector.
• Developing environmental education programs to increase public awareness.
• Establishing platforms to encourage alumni participation in sustainability initiatives.
• Creating community gardens on and off campus and promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
• Organizing voluntary sustainability projects to ensure active participation of students and staff.

Administrative and Managerial Processes

• Establishing a Sustainability Office to coordinate sustainability efforts across the University.
• Publishing regular sustainability reports to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Integrating environmental and social sustainability criteria into the University’s procurement policies.
• Developing sustainability action plans and implementing continuous improvement processes.
• Organizing regular training and orientation programs to raise awareness of sustainability among staff and students.

3. Monitoring and Evaluation

To monitor and continuously improve the goals set within this policy:

• The Sustainability Office will publish a comprehensive sustainability report at least once a year.
• Data on sustainability actions from relevant university units will be collected regularly.
• The applicability of strategic sustainability goals will be evaluated, and necessary revisions will be made.
• Feedback mechanisms will be implemented to engage students, faculty, and administrative staff in the sustainability policy.

4. Conclusion

Izmir University of Economics is committed to building a sustainable future through academic excellence, innovative research, and social contribution. This policy outlines the steps the University will take to ensure environmental, economic, and social sustainability for both present and future generations.

In this regard, sustainability is not merely a goal but an integral part of all academic and administrative processes.

Purpose

This policy aims to:

• Establish a structured feedback system to evaluate the effectiveness of University services and enhance user satisfaction.
• Collect, analyze, and implement feedback from students, academic and administrative staff to ensure continuous improvement in academic and administrative processes.
• Define fundamental guidelines for academic research involving the University community.

Surveys and feedback on University services and user satisfaction

Scope

This policy applies to all university services, including:

• Academic Services (teaching, curriculum, course delivery)
• Administrative Services (student affairs, registration, financial support)
• Library and IT Services
• Campus Facilities
• Student Support Services (psychological counseling, career services, housing, healthcare)

Feedback Collection Methods

The university will utilize the following feedback mechanisms to ensure diverse and inclusive participation:

Surveys and Questionnaires

• Conducted periodically (semesterly/annually) to collect structured responses.
• Distributed electronically via University portals, emails, and mobile applications.
• Include Likert scale questions, open-ended questions, and satisfaction assessments.

Focus Group Discussions

• Organized with students, academic and administrative staff.

• Conducted in small groups to gather in-depth qualitative insights.

Online Feedback Portals and QR Code System

• Anonymous and open-access portals and QR code systems allow users to provide feedback anytime.

Exit Interviews

• Conducted with graduating students and departing academic/administrative staff to collect feedback on their overall experience.

Evaluation and Analysis

• Anonymous academic and administrative surveys include:
  • CTES (Course and Teaching Evaluation Survey)
  • SES (Student Experience Survey)
  • AcSES (Academic Staff Experience Survey)
  • AdSES (Administrative Staff Experience Survey)
• These surveys are distributed via online platforms (Student Information System, MyIUE, email) and reviewed by relevant faculty, academic/administrative department heads, and deans.
• The Quality Assurance Office compiles, categorizes, and statistically analyzes the data to identify trends and reports the findings to the Quality Commission and the Rectorate.
• Key performance indicators for measuring user satisfaction include:
  • Response time to service requests
  • Accuracy of service delivery
  • Complaint resolution rates
  • Student and staff satisfaction rates

Improvement Practices

• Action Plans: The University administration will develop actionable plans based on feedback analysis.
• Periodic Reviews: Improvements will be regularly monitored and reviewed.
• Transparency: Summary reports on feedback and implemented changes will be shared with stakeholders.

Confidentiality and Anonymity

• Feedback responses will be kept confidential and anonymized when necessary.
• Participants will not face any penalties for providing honest feedback.

Surveys for Academic Research

Scope

• Surveys conducted for academic research (both internal and external requests).
• All internal academic research surveys must be approved by the relevant ethics committee.
• Generally, external parties are not permitted to conduct surveys within the IUE community unless approved by the Vice Rector for Academic Affairs.

Exemptions

The following data collection methods are exempt from this policy:

• Student evaluations for individual courses and teaching
• Employee performance assessment tools
• Surveys administered by faculty members within their courses for students
• Tools used for the selection of candidates for specific university positions
• Student surveys conducted within academic course content (subject to relevant faculty member’s approval)
• One-time surveys for feedback on specific campus events or programs
• Surveys conducted during or immediately after service delivery

Reviews and Policy Updates

• The policy will be reviewed annually by the Quality Commission to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
• Necessary revisions will be made based on the University’s evolving needs and the performance of the feedback system.

Izmir University of Economics, Directorate of Information Technology pledges to;

• Protect the reliability and reputation of the University,
• Protect the confidentiality, integrity, and accessibility of the information,
• Assess and manage risks regarding Information Security,
• Obey the respective legislative requirements,
• Provide training courses that will improve competencies in order to increase information security awareness,
• Reduce the impact of information security threats on job/service continuity, ensure the job continuity and sustainability,
• Improve security necessities continuously,
• Ensure the provision of necessary resources.

1. Purpose

İzmir University of Economics (IUE) uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies to enhance educational experiences, research, and administrative efficiency. This policy outlines guidelines and ethical considerations for the responsible use of AI tools and technologies by all users (students, faculty, staff, and any other individuals) in connection with IUE activities.

2. General Principles

• Transparency: Users must disclose the use of AI tools and technologies in all activities, including teaching, research, and administration, to promote trust and confidence. AI-generated content should be clearly identified, and decisions influenced by AI tools should be explainable.
• Accountability: Users are responsible for the ethical and appropriate use of AI tools. They must critically evaluate AI-generated outputs for accuracy, fairness, and reliability, ensuring that final decisions remain human-driven. Misuse or reliance on AI tools without verification may result in disciplinary action.
• Non-Discrimination: The university ensures that AI systems should be designed and implemented in ways that prevent bias, ensuring equitable opportunities in learning, research, and administration.
• Privacy & Security: All users should avoid sharing confidential or personal data (of any member of the university) on AI platforms to ensure data privacy and security. The university will establish formal definitions and security levels for different types of data, to prevent unauthorized access and misuse.
• Copyright: All users should be aware that AI tools might generate content that is copyrighted or based on someone else’s intellectual property without proper permission.
• Innovation & Responsible AI Use: AI tools should be used to enhance academic and administrative goals while aligning with ethical standards. Users are encouraged to explore the potential of AI tools while maintaining academic integrity and avoiding overreliance.
• Sustainability: The environmental impact of AI tools should be considered, and redundant AI-driven tasks should be minimized to reduce energy and water consumption. AI-related resource allocation should prioritize the responsible use of environmental resources.
• Human Oversight & Decision-Making: AI tools should assist but not replace human judgment. Faculty, researchers, and administrators should remain the final decision-makers in academic and administrative contexts. AI recommendations should always be subject to human review.
• Continuous Learning & Adaptation: AI is a rapidly evolving field, and policies should be regularly updated to reflect advancements. The university commits to providing ongoing AI literacy programs and adapting ethical guidelines to new technological developments.

3. Use of AI in Teaching and Learning

The use of AI tools in teaching can take multiple forms, including instructors using AI for lesson planning, generating lecture materials and assessments, evaluating student work, and students incorporating AI tools into their assignments or learning activities.

To ensure clarity and fairness, the university will establish general guidelines for the appropriate use of AI tools by instructors and students in educational activities. Individual instructors may still set specific rules within their courses, but such rules should align with university-wide policies to maintain consistency and fairness across disciplines.

Faculty members are encouraged to integrate AI tools into their teaching practices where appropriate, while also ensuring students develop an ethical and responsible understanding of the technology. The acceptable and unacceptable use of AI tools must be explained clearly in the detailed course syllabus. Some example syllabus statements regarding acceptable and unacceptable use of AI are provided by Ekoeğitim-TLC.

As AI tools present both challenges and opportunities in student learning assessment, it is essential to reconsider assessment methods to maintain academic integrity and align with evolving technological realities. IUE encourages instructors to explore authentic assessment approaches that reflect real-world applications of knowledge and skills. If traditional assessments are retained, instructors should carefully evaluate how AI tools may impact their structure and administration. This may require adjusting learning outcomes or modifying assessment conditions to ensure that evaluations remain meaningful and accurately measure student learning.

Since each academic unit has unique requirements, they should determine the extent to which AI tools may be used and specify their applicability to different assignments.

4. Use of AI in Research

At IUE, integrity is fundamental to all academic activities. It encompasses the values, principles, and best practices that ensure ethical and rigorous research. Integrity in research requires transparency, honesty, respect, rigor, and accountability throughout the research process.

Accordingly, AI tools should be used responsibly and in alignment with research integrity. Since AI-generated information may be inaccurate or biased, its outputs must be critically evaluated for scientific validity and verified against credible academic sources.

All research activities that involve AI need to be in accordance with Council of Higher Education’s “Ethical Guide on the Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Scientific Research and Publication Activities of Higher Education Institutions” document.

https://www.yok.gov.tr/Documents/2024/yapay-zeka-kullanimina-dair-etik-rehber.pdf

5. Use of AI in University Administration

The university administration must create a fair environment in which everyone has equal access to AI tools. Additionally, there should be room for those who do not want to use AI tools in their research, teaching, or learning activities.

The university should develop comprehensive AI literacy programs and encourage collaboration between departments to maintain these programs.

The university guarantees that AI tools will not be used in ways that discriminate against individuals or groups based on race, gender, age, disability, or other protected characteristics.

6. AI Subcommittee

A university subcommittee will be formed to oversee AI policies and approve tools, ensure compliance with evolving standards, maintain a list of AI tools to guide safe, appropriate, and ethical use, and accept feedback from the users to improve the policy, explore innovative approaches to integrating AI technologies across all aspects of university operations.

7. Compliance

Non-compliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action in accordance with the university procedures. The misuse of AI tools including but not limited to:

• Plagiarism & AI-Generated Content: Students and researchers using AI tools to generate essays, research papers, or assignments without proper attribution (i.e. violation of transparency, fairness, and accountability principles)
• Fabrication of Data: Using AI tools to generate fake or manipulated research data to support a hypothesis.
• Bias Amplification: Relying on AI tools that inherit biases from their training data, leading to unethical or misleading academic conclusions.
• Ghostwriting & Cheating: Using AI tools for take-home exams, assignments, dissertations or articles without genuine understanding.
• Falsification of Citation: Inserting AI-generated references that are inaccurate, non-existent, or misattributed to academic works.
• Unauthorized Use of AI in Peer Review: Reviewers using AI tools to summarize or critique academic papers without properly engaging with the content.
• Privacy Violations: Using AI tools to analyze or extract information from students’ or researchers’ work without consent.

Update: 10 May 2025