BCE Code of Conduct

BCE Symposium > BCE Code of Conduct

Biodiversity Conservation and Ecotourism (BCE) is a scientific platform connecting individuals interested in discovering, studying, and managing biodiversity and ecotourism. BCE symposiums are recognized worldwide as a high-caliber setting for formal scientific exchange, aiming to provide participants with opportunities to present research findings, establish or renew collaborations, and network with an international community of Natural Scientists. BCE is committed to maintaining a professional, respectful, safe, and welcoming environment for all participants and volunteers. All BCE Executive Committee members, International Committee members, and conference attendees (including students, invited speakers, volunteers, guests, exhibitors, service providers, and all others associated with the conference) must abide by the BCE Code of Conduct outlined herein.

Expected Behaviour:

  • Treat everyone with respect and consideration.
  • Communicate openly and thoughtfully, valuing a diversity of views and opinions, particularly during scientific discussions. Critique ideas respectfully, avoiding personal attacks.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and fellow participants’ experiences.
  • Respect the rules and policies of the conference center and all associated venues, including social events and online communities.
  • BCE Officers, Executive, and International Committee members must adhere to these expectations at all times when interacting in a professional capacity.
  • All BCE financial transactions will be ratified by the BCE Executive Committee, including funds for plenary speakers, student support, and committee members’ activities.

Prohibited Misconduct:

  • Discrimination or harassment based on gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, race, religion, ethnicity, or other protected characteristics.
  • Harassment and intimidation, including verbal, written, or physical conduct designed to threaten or coerce.
  • Sexual harassment, including unwelcome advances or verbal/physical conduct of a sexual nature.
  • Retaliation against individuals who report or cooperate in investigations of misconduct.
  • Bullying or intimidation involving real or perceived power imbalances.
  • Unacceptable behavior, such as abuse, inappropriate use of nudity/sexual images, threats, stalking, or disrespectful disruptions.
  • Scientific critiques must be free of offensive or discriminatory elements.

Broadcasting Policy:

  • BCE supports the communication of science. Information presented at BCE may be reported by attendees via scientific journals, blogs, social media, etc., provided it is done respectfully and without direct reproduction of visual materials unless permission is granted by the presenter. Presenters may request that their work not be broadcasted, and attendees are asked to respect this.

Reporting Unacceptable Behaviour:

  • Complaints must be filed in good faith with reasonable grounds. Malicious or false allegations will be considered a violation of the BCE Code of Conduct.
  • Violations should be reported to the Conference Organizer, Secretary-General, or Secretary-General Elect. Complaints can be made verbally immediately after the violation and followed by a written report.
  • The report should include relevant documentation (e.g., date, time, misconduct observed, involved individuals). Complaints will be kept confidential as much as possible, consistent with the need for investigation.
  • No BCE participant who reports a violation in good faith shall suffer harassment or retaliation. Violations by BCE committee members should be reported to the Secretary-General, and any violations by the Secretary-General should be reported to the BCE Executive Committee.

Procedure for Code Violations:

  • During a Meeting: If experiencing or witnessing a serious threat to safety, contact venue security or local law enforcement immediately and notify the Conference Organizer or Secretary-General as soon as possible. The BCE Executive Committee may investigate and take actions, including warnings, expulsion, or banning from future events, depending on the severity of the incident.

  • After a Meeting: Violations reported after a meeting will be investigated by the BCE Executive Committee. The complainant should notify local law enforcement if an offense violated the law. Disciplinary actions may include warnings, expulsion, or bans from future events.

  • Inappropriate Use of Funds: Reports of misuse of BCE funds will be investigated by the BCE Treasurer and Secretary-General. Misuse without Executive Committee approval will not be tolerated.

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