Code of Conduct and Safeguarding
1. Purpose
The purpose of this Code of Conduct and Safeguarding is to:
- set out the Diplomacy Training Program’s (DTP) expectations for the appropriate standards of conduct and behaviour in its organisation; and
- provide a framework for DTP’s representatives to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the highest standards of ethical conduct.
2. Scope
This Code therefore applies to anyone who represents DTP and participates in DTP’s programs and activities. This includes, but is not limited to, DTP’s Board of Directors, staff, employees, contractors, volunteers, partners, trainers and participants.
This Code operates in conjunction with DTP’s other policies and procedures, including its Gender Policy, Equal Employment Opportunity Policy, Protection Against Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Policy (PSEAH), Complaints Policy and Child Protection Policy.
Set out below are the requirements for all those who represent DTP.
3. Values
Human Rights
DTP’s courses focus on building knowledge and understanding of human rights standards, principles and values. This is reflected in the content and process of DTP’s courses.
Integrity
We act honestly and are guided by respect for the human rights of all peoples, particularly marginalised and vulnerable groups, including women and children, persons with a disability and minorities.
Accountability
We take responsibility for our actions and are accountable to all our stakeholders for our performance and integrity. We “speak up” (verbally in–person or by note/text email) about any concerns about behaviours or safety to facilitators/staff of DTP and/or its local partner. DTP will take appropriate action on all reported concerns in relation to discrimination, harassment, disrespect and other conduct that makes others feel unsafe or disrespected.
Criminal conduct will be reported to the relevant authorities.
This commitment is shared by DTP’s partner organisations.
Transparency
We openly share information about DTP to all our stakeholders and to the public.
Respect
We recognise the value and diversity of every person and are committed to treating others with due regard to their rights, dignity and integrity.
DTP has a zero–tolerance policy for sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (SEAH).
Effectiveness
We will take positive steps to create a safe and supportive learning environment and strive to deliver outcomes that bring about positive change.
DTP is committed to participatory teaching methodologies and to honouring and respecting the knowledge, skills, experience and perspectives that each participant, trainer and resource person brings to its programs.
Equity
We are committed to overcoming prejudices, racism and disadvantage, and promoting fair and just access to resources.
Cooperation
We work with and alongside others in a spirit of mutuality, respecting diversity and difference in the pursuit of common goals.
4. Implementation
DTP Personnel must, at all times:
- Be familiar with and comply with the DTP Child Protection Policy and Protection Against Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment Policy and this Code of Conduct.
- Contribute to the establishment and maintenance of a safe environment particularly for women, children and other vulnerable groups within DTP and at DTP programs, courses, events or activities.
- Treat all persons including women and children and other vulnerable groups with respect and value their ideas and opinions, regardless of race, colour, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, national, ethnic or social origin, property, disability, birth or other status.
- Respect each person’s cultural differences, including women and children and other vulnerable groups, consistent with respecting the universal values of human rights and dignity.
- Act as positive role models in their conduct with women and children and other vulnerable groups and remain professional in their actions towards women and children and other vulnerable groups.
- Agree not to engage in any form of transactional sex (any form of sexual activity in exchange for goods and services, money, employment or preferential treatment) with primary stakeholders.
- Comply with the requirements of DTP’s Child Protection Policy, PSEAH Policy and wider legislative requirements for the immediate reporting of concerns or allegations of abuse, exploitation or risks of harm to children and women and/or non–compliance with the Policy or this Code.
- Cooperate fully with all external and internal investigations or inquiries into allegations of child abuse, SEAH or risks of harm to women and children.
5. Compliance with laws
DTP’s representatives must comply with the laws and regulations that apply wherever DTP operates. If any person is unclear on the impact that the law may have on their role, they should consult the Board or senior management of DTP.
Complying with the law includes, but is not limited to doing the following:
- establishing and maintaining management systems, policies and procedures that comply with the law;
- taking steps to understand laws and regulations as they relate to each person’s role or relationship with DTP; and
- promoting and conducting training in DTP’s policies and procedures.
6. Acting safely
Safety in the workplace is essential. DTP representatives will:
- comply with all workplace health and safety laws and apply standards of best practice to ensure that all people are protected from harm;
- provide sufficient resources to establish and maintain safe systems of work;
- promptly report and thoroughly address hazards and incidents that endanger people’s safety;
- use and promote safe work practices;
- continuously look for ways to identify and reduce risks to health and safety at DTP;
- promote a positive health and safety culture that is based on the principle that all accidents and incidents can be prevented; and
- maintain regular reporting of health and safety performance, through senior management, to the Board of Directors.
7. Compliance with the Code of Conduct
DTP representatives are to comply with the requirements of this Code of Conduct. A failure to do so for any reason may:
- in the case of DTP’s employees, lead to disciplinary action up to and including termination of the employee’s employment; or
- in the case of any other person or entity, DTP terminating its arrangement with that person or entity.
DTP’s expectation is therefore that all representatives will ensure they are aware of the requirements of this Code of Conduct.
Code Adopted: July 2019
Code Renewed: November 2021
Code to be Renewed: November 2023
