IOCongress2022 is dedicated to providing a harassment-free conference experience for everyone, regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), or technology choices. We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form. If you have experienced or witnessed harassment, we encourage you to report the activity to the conference staff which includes any member of the local organising committee and any officer of the International Ornithologists Union. They will then pass the information directly to a designated member of the local committee in charge of harassment issues, and the matter will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Harassment includes offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, technology choices, sexual images in public spaces, deliberate intimidation, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, sustained disruption of talks or other events, inappropriate physical contact, and unwelcome sexual attention.

Participants asked to stop any harassing behaviour are expected to comply immediately.

Sponsors are also subject to the anti-harassment policy. In particular, sponsors should not use sexualised images, activities, or other material. Booth staff (including volunteers) should not use sexualised clothing/uniforms/costumes, or otherwise create a sexualised environment.

If a participant engages in harassing behaviour, the conference organisers may take any action they deem appropriate, including warning the offender or expulsion from the conference with no refund. Conference staff will be happy to help participants contact hotel/venue security or local law enforcement, provide escorts, or otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the conference. When possible, conference staff will also work to ensure the anonymity of those who report harassment.

We expect participants to follow these rules at all conference and workshop venues and at all conference-related social events and field excursions.

Should you have a concern or like to report any inappropriate behaviour please email codeofconduct@confco.co.za