A well-defined framework for language and intercultural communication

Initiative 3 i the Action Plan for Diversity, Equality and Inclusion 2030


AU strives to be an international, research-intensive campus-based university, and this is reflected in the growing number of international staff at the university. AU’s increasingly international profile has increased the need for a clearer language framework. Experience shows that unclear language expectations can lead to challenges in communication and the performance of tasks, which may contribute to tensions between colleagues and perceptions of discrimination.

Goals: Long-term

  • AU has a well-defined framework and clear expectations for language.
  • Fewer people experience miscommunications and conflicts due to challenges related to language and intercultural communication.
  • There is a clear alignment of expectations related to language skills in connection with recruitment and employment.

Goals: Short-term

Activity 1 will start in 2026 and be completed by the end of 2027.

Activities

This initiative comprises 3 activities:

  1. Language policy/principles for language use.
  2. Procedure and tools for aligning expectations for language skills in connection with recruitment and employment.
  3. Overview and further development of language and intercultural communication courses offered at AU. 

Responsibility

A working group will be established for each activity and will be responsible for developing the content of the activity. The working groups will include stakeholders and individuals with relevant expertise and will ensure that a diversity of experience is represented.

Recommendations issued by the working groups will be submitted to the senior management team.

The Rector's Office will be responsible for Activity 1.

AU HR will be responsible for Activities 2 and 3.

Timeline

  • Activity 1: Will be launched in 2026 and is expected to be concluded by the end of 2027.
  • Activity 2: Will be launched in 2028 and is expected to be concluded by the end of 2028.
  • Activity 3: Will be launched in 2029 and is expected to be concluded by the end of 2029.