Membership

ISHR Membership Code of Conduct

Introduction

The International Society for Human Rights (ISHR) is committed to promoting and protecting human rights globally. Our individual membership program welcomes people from around the world who share our vision of a world where human rights defenders are safe, supported, and empowered. To maintain ISHR’s reputation as a professional and reputable human rights organization, all members are required to adhere to this Code of Conduct throughout their membership, including during renewals or (re-)applications. By submitting a membership application, you commit to upholding these principles in all interactions related to ISHR membership.

Purpose

This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for ISHR members to ensure that our community reflects the values of respect, integrity, inclusivity, and accountability. It applies to all members in their engagement with ISHR, other members, partners, and the broader human rights community, whether online, in person, or in any other context associated with ISHR membership.

1. Commitment to Human Rights Principles

  • Uphold Universal Human Rights: Members must support and promote the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and other international human rights frameworks. This includes respecting the dignity, equality, and rights of all individuals without distinction of any kind, such as race, color, sex, language, religion, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth, or other status.
  • Non-Discrimination: Members shall not engage in or endorse any form of discrimination, including but not limited to racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, or xenophobia, in their conduct as ISHR members.
  • Advocacy for Human Rights Defenders: Members commit to supporting ISHR’s mission to protect and empower human rights defenders, recognizing their critical role in advancing justice and accountability.

2. Professionalism and Integrity

  • Respectful Conduct: Members shall engage with others courteously, respectfully, and professionally in all ISHR-related activities, including events, online platforms, and communications.
  • Honesty and Transparency: Members must act with integrity, providing accurate information in their membership application and in all interactions related to ISHR. Misrepresentation of identity, affiliations, or intentions is strictly prohibited.
  • Confidentiality: Members may have access to sensitive information through ISHR activities. Members must respect confidentiality and not disclose sensitive or private information without explicit permission from ISHR or the relevant parties.
  • Responsible Representation: Members shall not claim to represent ISHR officially unless explicitly authorized by ISHR. When speaking publicly or engaging in advocacy as an ISHR member, members must clarify that their views are personal unless otherwise directed by ISHR.
  • Inclusive Language: Members shall strive to use inclusive, non-derogatory language in all ISHR-related interactions.

3. Respectful and Inclusive Engagement

  • Safe and Inclusive Environment: Members shall contribute to creating a welcoming, inclusive, and safe environment for all, free from harassment, bullying, or intimidation. This includes refraining from any behaviour—verbal, written, or physical—that could reasonably be perceived as offensive, threatening, or harmful, for example, slurs, unsolicited physical contact, or exclusionary jokes.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Members shall respect cultural, social, and personal differences, recognizing the global diversity of ISHR’s membership and the human rights community.
  • Conflict Resolution: Members should address disagreements constructively and respectfully, seeking dialogue and understanding. Any disputes should be reported to ISHR for mediation or resolution in accordance with ISHR’s procedures.

4. Responsible Use of ISHR Platforms and Resources

  • Appropriate Use of Platforms: Members using ISHR’s online platforms (e.g., the Members Area, social media groups, or forums) must adhere to platform guidelines and refrain from posting content that is defamatory, inflammatory, or contrary to ISHR’s mission and values.
  • No Misuse of Resources: Members shall not use ISHR’s name, logo, or resources for personal gain, commercial purposes, or any activities that conflict with ISHR’s mission or this Code of Conduct.
  • Compliance with Laws: Members must comply with all applicable local, national, and international laws in their activities related to ISHR membership.
  • Moderation: ISHR reserves the right to monitor, moderate, and restrict access to its platforms if member conduct is deemed harmful or inconsistent with this Code.

5. Accountability and Reporting

  • Reporting Violations: Members are encouraged to report any breaches of this Code of Conduct to ISHR promptly. Reports can be made confidentially through [insert contact point, e.g., members@ishr.org].
  • Cooperation with Investigations: Members agree to cooperate fully with ISHR in any investigation related to alleged violations of this Code of Conduct.
  • Consequences of Violations: Failure to adhere to this Code may result in disciplinary actions, including but not limited to warnings, suspension, or termination of membership, as determined by ISHR’s leadership in accordance with its policies.
  • Protection from Retaliation: ISHR will take reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality and safety of any member who reports a violation in good faith.
  • Fair Process: Alleged breaches will be investigated in a fair, impartial, and timely manner, with an opportunity for the member to respond.

6. Commitment to Continuous Learning

  • Engage in Learning Opportunities: Members are encouraged to participate in ISHR’s training, events, and resources to deepen their understanding of human rights and enhance their ability to contribute effectively to ISHR’s mission.
  • Openness to Feedback: Members should be open to receiving constructive feedback from ISHR or other members and strive to improve their conduct and contributions accordingly.
  • Induction Requirement: New members are encouraged to participate in ISHR’s onboarding sessions or resources to familiarise themselves with the organisation’s values and expectations.

7. Personal Responsibility

  • Personal Accountability: Members are responsible for their actions and words in all ISHR-related contexts. Claiming ignorance of this Code of Conduct does not excuse violations.
  • Alignment with ISHR’s Mission: Members shall ensure that their actions, whether online or offline, align with ISHR’s mission and do not harm the organisation’s reputation or work.

Acknowledgment

By applying for ISHR membership, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. ISHR reserves the right to update this Code as needed, and members will be notified of any significant changes. Continued membership implies acceptance of any updated terms.

Contact: For questions or concerns about this Code of Conduct, please contact ISHR at members@ishr.org