Code of Conduct

The Geneva Graduate Forum is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment for all participants. This Code of Conduct establishes the behavioral expectations and professional standards that govern all forum activities, interactions, and communications.

This Code applies to all forum participants, including but not limited to: graduate students, researchers, faculty members, guest speakers, organizers, and support staff. It covers all forum-related activities, whether conducted in-person, virtually, or through any associated communication channels.

All participants are expected to:

• Demonstrate respect: Treat all individuals with dignity, courtesy, and professionalism, regardless of their background, identity, or viewpoints.
• Foster inclusion: Create an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued, promoting equitable participation for all.
• Maintain academic integrity: Present original work, properly attribute sources, and engage in honest scholarly discourse.
• Practice active listening: Engage thoughtfully with presentations and discussions, asking constructive questions and providing respectful feedback.
• Respect confidentiality: Honor any requests for confidentiality regarding unpublished research or personal information shared during the forum.
• Uphold professional standards: Dress appropriately, arrive punctually, and participate actively in all scheduled activities.
• Support collaborative learning: Share knowledge generously while respecting intellectual property rights.

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:

• Harassment or discrimination: Any form of harassment, intimidation, or discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, age, disability, or any other characteristic.
• Academic misconduct: Plagiarism, falsification of data, unauthorized collaboration, or misrepresentation of credentials or research.
• Disruptive behavior: Interrupting presentations, engaging in side conversations during sessions, or any conduct that interferes with the forum proceedings.
• Inappropriate content: Sharing offensive, discriminatory, or unprofessional material in any format or medium.
• Breach of confidentiality: Unauthorized disclosure of confidential research, personal information, or private discussions.
• Substance abuse: Participating in forum activities while under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances.
• Unwelcome contact: Persistent unwanted communication or contact after being asked to stop.
• Retaliation: Taking adverse action against someone who reports misconduct or participates in an investigation.

Research Presentation Requirements:

• All presented research must be original work or clearly attributed collaborative efforts
• Proper citation of sources, methodologies, and theoretical frameworks is mandatory
• Any potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed during presentations
• Data and findings must be presented accurately without manipulation or misrepresentation

Intellectual Property:

• Respect for intellectual property rights of all participants
• Prohibition of unauthorized recording, reproduction, or distribution of presentations
• Clear agreements on collaborative work and co-authorship expectations
• Protection of preliminary or unpublished research shared during sessions

If you experience or witness behavior that violates this Code of Conduct, we encourage you to report it promptly. The Geneva Graduate Forum is committed to addressing all concerns fairly and confidentially.

How to Report:

• Immediate concerns: Contact any forum organizer or designated conduct officer during the event
• Formal reports: Email conduct@genevagradforum.org with detailed information
• Anonymous reports: Submit concerns through our confidential online reporting system
• Emergency situations: Contact local emergency services immediately, then notify forum organizers

What to Include:

• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Names of individuals involved (if known)
• Detailed description of what occurred
• Names of any witnesses
• Any supporting documentation or evidence

Investigation Process:

• All reports will be investigated promptly and thoroughly
• Investigations will be conducted by trained, impartial individuals
• Both complainants and respondents will have opportunities to present their perspectives
• Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent possible
• No retaliation will be tolerated against those who report in good faith

Potential Consequences:

Violations may result in various sanctions, including but not limited to:

• Verbal or written warnings
• Required participation in educational programs
• Removal from specific forum activities or sessions
• Expulsion from the current forum
• Prohibition from future forum participation
• Notification to affiliated institutions or professional organizations
• Referral to appropriate legal authorities when warranted

The Geneva Graduate Forum is committed to supporting all participants. The following resources are available:

• Conduct Officers: Trained staff available throughout the forum for immediate assistance
• Counseling Services: Professional counseling referrals available upon request
• Academic Support: Mentorship and guidance for research and professional development
• Accessibility Services: Accommodations for participants with disabilities
• Emergency Contact: 24/7 support line for urgent situations