University elections: which staff parties can you vote for?
Workloads, inclusion, sustainability: what should be the priorities? In the university elections from 18 to 21 May, you can vote for colleagues who will represent you on the University Council. The leaders of the four staff parties outline their plans.
Gerrit Schaafsma, Leidse Academische Gemeenschap
‘LAG stands for a university that puts people first again. Workloads, democratisation and community aren’t separate issues but are different facets of the same question: what kind of university do we want to be?
‘We want to address high workloads in a systematic way, with clear standards instead of empty promises. All policy proposals should be subject to a workload assessment. We will also continue to press for real participation: participation as a right, not a concession from management. And we oppose a campus that is gradually turning into a soulless, flexible workspace where people no longer feel they belong.
‘LAG has a proven track record: from securing permanent contracts for teaching staff to creating the role of ombuds officer. Other parties promise change; LAG shows what change requires, and delivers. Still unsure? Vote for the party that offers not just criticism but results.’
Patrick Klaassen, Universitair Belang
‘More time for research and teaching, less time on paperwork: that’s what we stand for. Universitair Belang wants to place research, teaching and their support at the centre of the university once again. Many colleagues are spending increasing amounts of time on admin, systems and regulatory demands, leaving less room for research, teaching and academic supervision.
‘The pressure arising from regulations, assessment and accountability is also intensifying in research. Rather than becoming bogged down in procedures, research should offer space for new and unconventional ideas.
‘We are lecturers, researchers and support staff who understand where the problems lie in our day-to-day work. Vote for UB for a people-centred approach, academic freedom and more scope for the work that really matters.’
Wei Ping Young, PhDoc
‘Since 2012, PhDoc has represented the interests of PhDs and postdocs at Leiden University in strategic university activities regardless of nationality, gender, sexual identity or cultural background.
‘We aim to empower the community by fighting for better protection and support for all PhD pathways, for the rights of external and scholarship candidates, as well as for a more unified graduate school system. On the University Council, we have helped improve the commuting allowance and worked with labour unions to tackle the misuse of annual agreements, among other active discussions.
‘We hope to continue these conversations and to improve on this relationship of trust with PhDs and postdocs in 2026-2028 to foster a just and inclusive institutional environment. Vote for PhDoc this election to ensure our voices are heard!’
Mara Constantinescu, FNV Universiteit Leiden
‘For us, three elements are central: good terms of employment, a positive working environment and a socially responsible university. For us, this means reducing workloads through permanent contracts and a realistic allocation of tasks. We also want a safe and inclusive workplace culture with fewer flexible workspaces and greater trust in staff, reflected in transparent and participatory decision-making. Dignity, respect and equality are our guiding principles.
‘We also champion a sustainable, green campus free from animal testing, alongside ethical consideration of which partnerships we continue, in line with international law and the protection of our planet.
‘FNV Universiteit Leiden stands out for our experience in negotiation, a strong membership base in which staff participation is the norm and a visible presence on the ground. We are not interested in tick-box policies, but in delivering tangible results.’