Code of Conduct

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IWRA Islands Water Congress — Code of Conduct

1. Introduction and Purpose

The International Water Resources Association (IWRA) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, respectful, constructive and welcoming environment for all participants at the IWRA Congress, whether attending in person or online. This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected of all participants, defines unacceptable conduct, and explains how concerns may be raised. The Code applies to all spaces associated with the IWRA Congress, including plenary and parallel sessions, side events, exhibitions, social functions, online platforms, and related gatherings. Participants include, but are not limited to: organisers, speakers, chairs, moderators, delegates, volunteers, exhibitors, sponsors, partners, media representatives, and guests.

2. Expected Behavior

All participants are expected to:
  1. Treat others with dignity and respect Engage courteously and professionally, recognising and valuing diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and expertise.
  2. Promote inclusion and equity Contribute to an environment in which all individuals feel welcome and able to participate fully in discussions, networking and social activities.
  3. Respect differing opinions Engage in constructive dialogue and debate without personal criticism, hostility or discriminatory remarks.
  4. Act responsibly and considerately Be mindful of the comfort and safety of others and alert Congress staff if a participant appears distressed or a situation appears unsafe.

3. Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviours will not be tolerated at the IWRA Congress:
  1. Harassment, bullying, discrimination or intimidation of any kind, whether verbal, non-verbal, written or physical.
  2. Offensive or derogatory comments relating to gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age or other personal characteristics.
  3. Unwanted attention, including inappropriate physical contact or persistent disruption of conversations or sessions.
  4. Sustained disruption of presentations, meetings or Congress activities.
  5. Recording, photographing or distributing content involving other participants without their explicit consent.
  6. Retaliation against any individual who raises a concern or makes a report under this Code.
This applies to behaviour occurring in person, on digital platforms, on social media, or at satellite and associated events linked to the Congress.

4. Consequences of Unacceptable Behavior

Participants asked to cease unacceptable behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

If a participant violates this Code of Conduct, the Congress organisers reserve the right to take appropriate action, including:

  • Issuing a formal warning

  • Removing the individual from a session or event

  • Revoking speaking, exhibiting or participation privileges

  • Expelling the individual from the Congress without refund

Where appropriate, serious incidents may be referred to relevant authorities.

5. Reporting and Support

If you experience or witness conduct that violates this Code:

  1. Report the matter promptly to Ignacio Deregibus, IWRA Executive Director, i.deregibus@iwra.org or a member of the IWRA Islands Water Congress team at islands.congress@iwra.org.

  2. Confidentiality

    Reports will be handled sensitively and, where possible, confidentially.

  3. Protection from retaliation

    Retaliation against anyone who reports misconduct or assists in addressing a concern is strictly prohibited.

6. Our Shared Commitment

By attending the IWRA Islands Water Congress, participants agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and to contribute to a professional and respectful atmosphere that fosters meaningful exchange, collaboration and learning within the global water community.

7. Your Contact for Information or Reporting

Contact: Ignacio Deregibus, IWRA Executive Director, i.deregibus@iwra.org

Have questions or need assistance?
Contact us at islands.congress@iwra.org

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