The MA program Interdisciplinary Studies of the Middle East (ISME) is one of the most diverse programs at Freie Universität Berlin. As its academic coordinators, we dedicate ourselves to promoting and protecting this diversity as a matter of principle. As members of the Freie Universität community, we are committed to recognizing, reflecting on and dismantling mechanisms of exclusion. We are equally devoted to protecting academic freedom. We stand for an academic environment that allows all persons to express their opinions and ideas, and we champion the open and reasoned discussion of conflicting viewpoints with mutual respect.

We call on everyone in ISME to stand with us for diversity and academic freedom and against discrimination and exclusion. Support us in strengthening an inclusive community that hears, values, and supports all its members. Strive to communicate in ways that build trust and understanding. Engage with each other with care and empathy in all your communications, whether spoken or written. By choosing our words thoughtfully and listening generously, we can nurture an atmosphere of kindness and goodwill that uplifts us all. 

Your academic coordinators, 

Lukas Mühlethaler and Victoria Mummelthei