Code of Conduct

ICLLT Anti-Harassment Policy and Code of Conduct

Commitment to a Respectful Environment

ICLLT is dedicated to fostering open discussions in a respectful and inclusive setting. Everyone must treat others with fairness and respect. While debate is encouraged, personal attacks create a hostile environment and will not be tolerated. All participants—attendees, speakers, exhibitors, staff, and others—must behave professionally and respectfully.

Prohibited Behavior

ICLLT strictly prohibits all forms of bullying, discrimination, and harassment, including sexual harassment, at its events and activities. Retaliation against those who report violations or filing false reports is also prohibited. Misuse of power, status, or authority to harass or discriminate is especially harmful, as it can discourage victims from speaking up.

If a violation is confirmed after an investigation, ICLLT may take appropriate disciplinary action.

Definitions

• Bullying: Repeated abuse or mistreatment of someone vulnerable by a more powerful person or group. This includes verbal attacks, physical aggression, and social exclusion.
• Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on personal attributes like race, gender, age, disability, or other non-work-related factors.
• Harassment: Unwanted behavior that demeans, threatens, or offends others, creating a hostile environment. This includes slurs, threats, stalking, physical interference, and offensive images.
• Sexual Harassment: Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for favors, or sexually inappropriate behavior that creates an intimidating or hostile environment.
• Retaliation: Negative treatment of someone for reporting harassment, such as exclusion, demotion, or damage to reputation. Retaliation discourages people from reporting misconduct.

What to Do If You Experience or Witness a Violation

If you feel comfortable, inform the person that their behavior is unwelcome. However, confrontation is not required. If the behavior continues or you prefer not to address it directly, report the incident.

How to Report

You can report bullying, discrimination, or harassment by:

• Speaking with an ICLLT staff member at the event
• Sending an email to icllt@gazi.edu.tr
• Providing as many details as possible (names, dates, locations, behavior, etc.)

ICLLT does not accept anonymous reports to ensure a fair investigation, but confidentiality will be maintained unless disclosure is necessary for a proper investigation.

What Happens After a Report?

ICLLT will conduct a thorough and unbiased investigation, speaking with all relevant parties. Investigations will be handled by ICLLT staff, not volunteers or members, and legal or professional advice may be sought. The ICLLT Chair, Vice Chair, and Organizing Committee will review findings.

If a violation is confirmed, disciplinary actions may include:

• Suspension or removal from an event without refund
• Banning from future ICLLT events
• Contacting the violator’s employer or law enforcement if necessary

No retaliation will be taken against anyone who makes a good faith report.

For any question about this policy, or ICLLT’s incident investigation process, remedial actions or appeals process, please contact us at icllt@gazi.edu.tr