Code of Conduct.
The NGOs Forum is a continental platform for human rights advocacy in Africa. This Code of Conduct sets out the ethical standards expected of everyone who takes part in it. The Forum’s Membership Guidelines refer to this Code, and a failure to respect it can lead to sanctions up to termination of membership.
1. Purpose
The Code sets a consistent standard of ethical behaviour and professionalism across the Forum’s work. Its purposes are to:
- Guide ethical conduct. Give clear guidance on the conduct expected of all individuals and entities associated with the Forum, and promote accountability for their actions.
- Keep the environment respectful. Maintain an inclusive way of working, free from harassment and discrimination, so that every participant can contribute.
- Protect the Forum’s reputation. Preserve the credibility of the Forum as a human rights advocacy platform, so that its collective action reflects human rights principles.
- Make expectations clear. Turn the Forum’s core values into practical guidance for professional interactions and decisions.
- Build trust. Give members, partners, donors and the public confidence that the Forum operates with integrity.
2. Scope
The Code applies to all individuals and entities engaged with the NGOs Forum, including:
- member organisations;
- the Steering Committee;
- Secretariat staff;
- regional focal points;
- participants in thematic clusters;
- anyone representing the Forum.
3. Core principles and expected behaviour
The Code rests on the Forum’s core values: solidarity, diversity, inclusion, connectedness and democratic commitment. Everyone covered by the Code is expected to observe the following.
Respect and professionalism
Treat every person with dignity and courtesy, regardless of background, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, political affiliation or any other characteristic. Remain professional in person and online.
Integrity and honesty
Act honestly and transparently in all Forum activities. Communications and actions must be truthful and accurate.
Non-discrimination and inclusion
Uphold the Forum’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. Treat everyone fairly and make sure all voices are heard, especially those of marginalised communities across Africa.
Compliance with laws and policies
Respect all applicable national, regional and international laws, regulations and human rights instruments relevant to the Forum’s work.
Stewardship of resources
Use the Forum’s resources, including its shared platforms, responsibly and only for purposes that serve its mission.
Confidentiality
Protect confidential information obtained through the Forum. Confidentiality is essential to trust and to open discussion of sensitive human rights matters.
4. Prohibited behaviour
The following behaviour is prohibited. Any instance is a serious breach of the Code and will lead to formal action under the Forum’s Membership Guidelines.
- Harassment and bullying. Any verbal, physical, sexual or psychological harassment, including intimidation, threats or other behaviour that creates a hostile or offensive environment.
- Discrimination. Direct or indirect discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, nationality, political opinion or any other protected characteristic.
- Misrepresentation and deceit. Giving false or misleading information, fraud, plagiarism or any other dishonest conduct connected with Forum activities or representation.
Contact
Questions about this Code should be sent to the NGOs Forum Secretariat at admin@acdhrs.org.
© 2024 NGOs Forum. Reproduced on rflgd.org for reference. For RFLD’s own policies, see Governance and policies. For more on the African Union human rights system, see AU human rights mechanisms.