CODE OF CONDUCT: creating a safe and inclusive conference

ISBE 2026 is intended to foster the exchange of scientific ideas and provide participants with opportunities to engage and network with an international community of behavioural ecologists. The International Society for Behavioural Ecology (ISBE) and the ISBE 2026 Organising Committee are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, inclusive and professional environment for everyone participating in the congress, where everyone can participate without harassment, discrimination, intimidation or violence of any kind.

The ISBE Code of Conduct applies to all participants, including attendees, speakers, organisers, volunteers, exhibitors and sponsors, and covers all scientific sessions, workshops, social events, online communications and off-site activities officially associated with the congress.

What we expect from participants

All participants are expected to:

  • treat others with respect and consideration, valuing different perspectives, backgrounds and experiences;
  • communicate openly and thoughtfully, focusing criticism on ideas rather than individuals;
  • contribute to a constructive, inclusive and positive scientific environment;
  • use respectful and appropriate language and imagery in talks, posters and other congress materials, ensuring that criticism is directed at scientific ideas rather than at individuals or teams and that content does not objectify, demean or shame individuals or groups;
  • respect presenters’ and participants’ preferences regarding photography, recording and the dissemination of presentations, including on social media;
  • follow venue policies and the instructions of congress staff;
  • stop and report inappropriate behaviour when it is safe to do so.

 

Behaviour that will not be tolerated

Harassment, intimidation, discrimination, retaliation and other forms of inappropriate conduct will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • offensive or discriminatory verbal, written or visual material;
  • unwelcome sexual attention or advances, including unwanted touching;
  • physical or verbal abuse;
  • bullying, shaming, humiliating or deliberately demeaning behaviour;
  • stalking, persistent unwanted contact or intimidation;
  • deliberate disruption of talks, sessions or social events;
  • retaliation against anyone who reports an incident or assists with a report;
  • scientific or ethical misconduct;
  • knowingly making a false or malicious report. A report made in good faith will not be treated as misconduct merely because it cannot ultimately be substantiated.

Reporting an incident

Anyone who experiences or witnesses behaviour that may violate the Code of Conduct is encouraged to report it as soon as possible.

Reports may be made:

  • in person to a designated member of the ISBE 2026 Organising Committee or congress staff;
  • by confidential email to the Congress Chair, cristina.tuni@unito.it;

Reports will be treated seriously, sensitively and as confidentially as reasonably possible. Information will be shared only with those who need it to assess and respond to the concern, and the reporter’s preferences will be taken into account wherever possible..

In the event of an immediate or serious threat to personal or public safety, please contact venue security and call the European emergency number 112.

Possible consequences

Depending on the nature and seriousness of the incident, appropriate action may include a warning, removal from the congress without refund, exclusion from future ISBE events, notification of the individual’s institution or referral to the relevant authorities.

All participants must comply immediately when asked to stop unacceptable behaviour.

By registering for and participating in ISBE 2026, participants agree to comply with the ISBE Code of Conduct.