If you have been a victim of sexual or gender-based violence, intimidation, aggression, bullying or discrimination, i.e., if there has been a breach of social safety or if you suspect that a breach has occurred, you can file a complaint with the Ombudsman. You can also contact the Ombudsman in person to discuss the suspected breach of social safety with him or her.

Witnesses who were present during the conduct in question may also file a complaint.

The complaint must identify the parties or persons involved and state the relevant facts describing how social safety was violated, i.e., sexual or gender-based violence, intimidation, aggression, bullying or discrimination. The Ombudsman will then examine the complaint and decide on the next course of action:

• The ombudsman may propose a solution to the parties through mediation. If mediation does not result in an agreement, the Ombudsman will investigate the complaint.
• Violations of social safety may be a violation of the Code of Ethics or a disciplinary offense. In these cases, the Ombudsman is authorized to initiate an investigation into a violation of the Code of Ethics or disciplinary proceedings.
• If the Ombudsman does not find a breach of social safety, the Ombudsman will inform the person who made the complaint.
• If the Ombudsperson determines that there has been a breach of social safety, they shall notify the person who made the complaint and propose to the Rector that corrective action be taken; the Rector shall inform the Ombudsman of the action taken.

The Ombudsman puts the complaint on hold or refers it to the person who is authorized to deal with it (if the complaint is in fact an appeal in another matter).