Code of Conduct

Author:
Alok Bhatia

Introduction

ServePlanet is a non-charitable organisations working towards the conservation and protection of the marine ecosystem and eradication of poverty. With a vision for a cleaner, plastic-free and peaceful marine ecosystem which is ecologically healthy and able to nurture life in all its diversity and better life for people and their families living under poverty, ServePlanet always remain true to its core mission, aims and values. This Code of Conduct will help you live by them by providing guidance in the face of ethical dilemmas you may experience. It shows you what to do when a situation is complex by providing standards and values for you to follow and how to protect against situations that may damage you or ServePlanet. It also seeks to ensure that employees avoid using possible unequal power relationships for their own benefit.

The rules and guidelines contained in this Code of Conduct, together with other policies and procedures and applicable contracts, provides a framework within which all ServePlanet staff/ non-staff, regardless of location, undertake to discharge their duties and to regulate their conduct. They also support ServePlanet in our role in implementing, monitoring and enforcing these standards.

The Code does not exempt anyone and in accordance with relevant employing affiliate's policies and procedures, any breach may result in disciplinary action (including dismissal in some instances), and in some cases could lead to criminal prosecution.

In accepting your appointment you undertake to discharge your duties and to regulate your conduct in accordance with the requirements of this Code, thereby contributing to ServePlanet's quality of performance and reputation. The code describes what ServePlanet expects from its staff/ non-staff and what they can expect from ServePlanet.

Whilst recognising that local laws and cultures differ considerably from one country to another, ServePlanet is an International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO) and therefore the Code of Conduct is developed from International and UN standards.

This Code is subject to relevant international human rights law and shall be read in a manner that is compliant with that law.

Code of Conduct: Standards and Values

As a ServePlanet staff/ non-staff I will:

1. Uphold the integrity and reputation of ServePlanet by ensuring that my professional and personal conduct is demonstrably consistent with ServePlanet's values and standards.

I will seek to maintain and enhance public confidence in ServePlanet by being accountable for the professional and personal actions I take and ensuring that I manage the power that comes with my ServePlanet position with appropriate restraint.

Whilst observing the requirements of the Code of Conduct, I will also be sensitive to, and respectful of, local customs and culture, even if the norms and values in that cultural context differ from the Code of Conduct. I will if necessary seek (and will receive) support and advice from ServePlanet.

I will not work under the influence of alcohol or use, or be in possession of, illegal substances on ServePlanet premises, vehicles or accommodation.

2. Treat all people with respect and dignity and challenge any form of harassment, discrimination, intimidation, exploitation or abuse

ServePlanet staff hold a privileged position of power and trust in relation to our partners and the communities that we come from and serve. When carrying out ServePlanet's mission I understand that it is important not to abuse my own position of power/unequal power relationships in any way.

Recognising my role in ServePlanet's mission to challenge injustice and poverty, I will respect all peoples' rights, including children's rights, and I will contribute to a working environment characterised by mutual respect, integrity, dignity and non-discrimination.

I will ensure that my relationships and behaviour are not exploitative, abusive or corrupt in any way, and I will not engage in any form of sexual abuse or exploitation of any persons of any age.

In line with international standards I will not have sexual relations with children (defined as under 18 years old) or with beneficiaries (in exchange for assistance or any other reason) recognising the inherent unequal power dynamics involved, and that such behaviours can undermine the integrity and credibility of ServePlanet's work;

I will also not exchange money, offers of employment, employment, goods or services for sex or sexual favours, nor any other forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour, understanding that these standards exist to challenge sexually exploitative and abusive behaviour.

I will use my best endeavours to report any such behaviours or malpractice in the workplace by others to my line management or through recognised confidential reporting systems.

3. Perform my duties and conduct my private life in a manner that avoids possible conflicts of interest with the work of ServePlanet.

I will declare any financial, personal, family (or close intimate relationship) interest in matters of official business which may impact on the work of ServePlanet (e.g. contract for goods/services, employment or promotion within ServePlanet, partner organizations, beneficiary groups).

I will advise ServePlanet of any intention to seek a nomination as a prospective candidate or another official role for any political party or public office to clarify whether any conflict, or perceived conflicts, with my duties with ServePlanet may arise.

Even when the giving and acceptance of gifts is normal cultural practice I will reject monetary gifts or inappropriate gifts from governments, beneficiaries, donors, suppliers and other persons, which have been offered to me as a result of my employment with ServePlanet. Where the giving and acceptance of gifts is normal cultural practice, I will ensure that such gifts are within the limits of reasonable judgements and in accordance with procurement policies and I will report gifts to the line management and where appropriate hand them onto ServePlanet.

I will assure that assistance by ServePlanet is not provided in return of any service or favour from others.

I will act against any form of corruption and not offer, promise, give or accept any bribes.

4. Be responsible for the use of information, equipment, money and resources to which I have access by reason of my employment with ServePlanet.

I will use my discretion when handling sensitive or confidential information.

I will seek authorization before communicating externally in ServePlanet's name and will avoid any unintended detrimental repercussions for me or ServePlanet.

I will appropriately account for all ServePlanet money and property, (e.g. vehicles, office equipment, ServePlanet-provided accommodation, computers including the use of internet, email and intranet).

5. Protect the health, safety, security and welfare of all ServePlanet employees, volunteers and contractors.

I will undertake and act on appropriate risk assessments.

I will comply with local security management guidelines and be pro-active in informing management of any necessary changes to such guidelines.

I will behave in such a way as to avoid any unnecessary risk to the safety, health and welfare of myself and others, including partner organizations and beneficiaries.

6. Promote human rights, protect the environment and oppose criminal or unethical activities.

I will ensure that my conduct is consistent with the human rights framework to which ServePlanet subscribes.

I will use my best endeavours to protect the natural environment and work in a sustainable way.

I will contribute to preventing all forms of criminal or unethical activities.

I will inform ServePlanet of any relevant criminal convictions or charges I have had prior to my employment in which ServePlanet may have a legitimate interest.

I will also notify ServePlanet if I face any criminal charges during my employment that may impede my ability to perform the duties of my position subject to national legislation.

I will adhere to following policies and procedures (see list below) that support the above Standards:

I have read carefully and understand the ServePlanet Code of Conduct and hereby agree to abide by its requirements and commit to upholding the standards of conduct required to support ServePlanet's aims, values, mission and its quality of performance and reputation.

Name:.....................................

Signature:............................

Date:........................................

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