Code of Conduct

Preamble

We provide humanitarian development aid based on the principles of “help for self-help” and follow the basic rules of humanitarian aid (drawn up by the aid organisations and federal ministries that make up the “Humanitarian Aid” coordinating committee).

Neutrality towards political and religious beliefs, respect for tradition and acceptance of the laws in force in the country of operation are mandatory.

Our code of conduct

must be put into practice every day – that is both our aspiration and our obligation!

The key to the success of our work lies in an organisation-wide culture shaped by decency, integrity, ethics and personal responsibility. The ethical demands on our actions are becoming ever greater.

Our Code of Conduct is the frame of reference for everyone in the organisations and companies involved. It combines the requirement to comply with the law with our particular standards of ethical conduct and with the guidelines that make our success possible. It sets a standard for ourselves and is at the same time our promise to the outside world! This charter (voluntary commitment) is dynamic; it is open to new standards of conduct. Binding legal standards can change, and guidelines can make the requirements for conduct more specific.

We are aware of the importance of gender-sensitive language. For the sake of clarity and simplicity, we have nevertheless decided to use the masculine form for terms referring to people.

Belonging to our organisation and sharing its identity requires every individual to take responsibility. We are aware that our success and the reputation the organisations have earned through the daily commitment of our people can be damaged by a single instance of misconduct.

The rules of conduct must be observed! – Misconduct will not be tolerated!

This voluntary commitment is a fundamental part of our philosophy and applies to all staff, companies and supporters working in or for the organisation, whether as members, sponsors, patrons or similar.

All the people involved treat each other with humanity, morality, respect and fairness, and accept the law. In companies, whether externally managed or under our own responsibility, humane working conditions are a prerequisite for cooperation. Workplaces meet the requirements for safety and minimum social and environmental standards. In particular, working hours and wages are agreed fairly and paid regularly in accordance with the contract. Exploitative practices and child labour are prohibited.

We do not tolerate discriminatory and/or racist statements and actions in any way. Political or religious activities and statements are to be refrained from.

Accepting or giving tokens of appreciation such as gifts of any kind, especially of a financial nature, from or to employees of public authorities or comparable institutions is regarded as accepting or granting an advantage and is prohibited.

Staff who are looking after a project on a voluntary basis under a secondment agreement must strictly comply with and accept the laws and rules in force in the country of operation. Particular attention must be paid to cultural rules of conduct, which may differ from one’s own culture, and to dealings with people of the opposite sex.

If in doubt and/or if further information is needed, it is advisable to contact the management of the organisation.

As of: 2019