International representation in CMR

Petition: For an Inclusive and Internationally Represented CMR

We, the undersigned students and staff, are deeply concerned about the recent decision of the Central Participation Council (CMR) to exclude international students and colleagues from participating in the CMR. This decision not only diminishes the diversity of voices in our university’s governance but also contradicts the values of inclusivity and international collaboration that our institution strives to uphold.

Why This Matters:

1. Diversity of Perspectives: International students and staff enrich our community with diverse viewpoints and experiences. Excluding them creates a gap in representation that undermines the democratic principles of the CMR.
2. Language Should Not Be a Barrier: In a globalized academic environment, the inability to speak Dutch should not be a reason for exclusion. As a university that prides itself on its international character, we should embrace multilingual solutions and promote inclusivity.
3. Fair Representation: International students and colleagues contribute significantly to our university, academically, socially, and culturally. They deserve a seat at the table to voice their concerns and perspectives.
4. Disrespect for Democratic Elections: The international student representatives, Vito and Giuseppe, were fairly and democratically elected by the student body. Discounting their votes and excluding them undermines the integrity of the electoral process and silences those who voted for them.

This decision has unfairly removed our valued representatives, Vito and Giuseppe, from the CMR, sending a message that international voices are unwelcome in shaping our university's future. This is not the university we believe in.

We Demand:

• The immediate reinstatement of Vito and Giuseppe in the CMR.
• A commitment from the university to ensure that international students and staff are fairly represented in all governance structures.
• A clear plan to remove language barriers and enable equal participation for all members of our university community.
• A review of the decision-making process to ensure democratic elections are respected and votes are not unjustly discounted in the future.

We believe in a university that embraces diversity, inclusion, and equality. Let’s take a stand to ensure that every voice is heard and that democratic values are upheld.

Sign this petition to show your support for a truly inclusive and internationally represented CMR!