Strategy
Promoting equality and diversity at a strategic level is an important part of ETH Diversity's work. ETH Zurich's new diversity strategy has been under development since 2021. Special achievements by ETH members in the areas of diversity, inclusion and equality are honoured with the «Diversity Award» and the «ALEA Award».
On this page we introduce the ETH Zurich Diversity Strategy and share updates of the process. Click here to go directly to the section «Awards».
Diversity Strategy ETH Zurich
Addressing diversity has become a central task of university development. ETH Zurich has also been working on a diversity strategy since September 2021. With its Diversity Strategy, ETH Zurich wants to underline its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Innovation and creativity in research and teaching, as well as the quality of studies and everyday work, thrive on the unprejudiced coexistence of diverse individuals. The recognition and respectful appreciation of this individuality is part of our daily work at the university, underpinned by human rights and legal foundations such as the Swiss Gender Equality Act as well as the ETH Zurich mission statement and the Code of Conduct Respect. To implement this consistently at all levels of the university, ETH Zurich will develop a diversity strategy together with all its members.
The aim is to establish and live an open university culture together with all members of the university. A culture where everyone experiences a strong sense of belongingness, where everyone is treated with the utmost respect and where everyone is appreciated for and encouraged to maintain what makes them unique.
Gender Action Plan (since 2014)
In its Gender Action Plan, ETH Zurich specifies in a binding manner how it aims to achieve a gender balance and who is responsible for the implementation.
Here you find comprehensive information on the Gender Action Plan and reports on its implementation in individual departments.
Strategy for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion of the ETH Board (2025–2028)
The ETH Domain is committed to ensuring equal opportunities and creating a culture of inclusion and belonging for all its members. The DEI Strategy defines overarching goals and principles for the entire ETH Domain.
While gender equality remains a key priority, the ETH Board has decided to expand its Gender Strategy for the ETH Domain (2021-2024) into a more comprehensive Strategy for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion (DEI) for the period 2025-2028. This broadened scope better reflects the diverse characteristics, perspectives, life designs and experiences of all ETH Domain‘s members.
The DEI Strategy is divided into five focus areas, which approach the goal of fostering diversity, equality and inclusion from different perspectives:
Focus Area 1: Firm embedding of diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI) in the institutions
Focus Area 2: Inclusive culture and communication, safe environment and good leadership practice
Focus Area 3: Equal opportunities in career development
Focus Area 4: Conditions for a good life domain balance
Focus Area 5: Inclusive research & innovation and teaching
The ALEA Award honours individuals who have distinguished themselves through an exemplary leadership style. The Diversity Award was established to celebrate the service of the ETH members for their work to promote inclusion and diversity. ETH Diversity is involved in the awarding of both prizes and looks forward to receiving exciting nominations from the ETH community.
