7 April 2026

In a three-day working visit, the Netherlands Labour Authority has reviewed Leiden University’s policies and approach to work-related pressure and fostering a respectful environment. The inspectors spoke with the Executive Board, Leiden Law School, the Faculty of Humanities and the University Services Department. 

The Labour Authority has concluded that our university demonstrates a strong commitment to providing a safe and healthy work environment and that the appropriate policies, tools and culture focused on improvement are in place.

During the visit, the authority spoke with staff from all three parts of the organisation, including academic staff, support staff, HR advisers, confidential counsellors, managers and student and staff representatives. They asked them questions about our policies and measures addressing psychosocial risks such as high workloads, bullying, discrimination and other forms of unacceptable behaviour in the workplace.

The Authority found that these issues are taken seriously. Substantial efforts are being made at all levels of the organisation to create a positive and supportive work environment. The Executive Board regards this outcome as clear confirmation that our policy and approach are moving in the right direction. This strengthens our resolve to continue addressing the challenges that remain in relation to workload and mutual respect at work. This is a responsibility we remain committed to, now and in the years to come.