THE NGO INTERNATIONAL FILM & KNOWLEDGE FORUM

Code of Conduct

The NGO International Film & Knowledge Forum (THENGOIFKF)
Fostering Respect, Safety, and Creative Freedom Across a Global Community

THENGOIFKF is committed to cultivating a respectful, inclusive, and inspiring environment for all participants, partners, residents, staff, and collaborators. Rooted in our mission to advance cinema, knowledge exchange, and socially conscious innovation, our community thrives when everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute.

This Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behavior expected from everyone taking part in THENGOIFKF programmes, residencies, screenings, events, workshops, and online spaces. It also explains how we address concerns should they arise.

1. Guiding Principles

Respect

Every member of our community—regardless of background, identity, or perspective—is entitled to dignity and respect. We celebrate diversity of thought and experience, and we expect participants to treat one another with consideration, empathy, and professionalism.

Safety

We strive to provide a learning and working environment free from intimidation, discrimination, harassment, and harm. Physical, emotional, or psychological safety is non-negotiable.

Integrity

Honesty, accountability, and ethical conduct are core to our work. Whether in creative collaboration, research, dialogue, or administration, we expect transparent and responsible behavior.

Community

As a global, multidisciplinary forum, our strength lies in collaboration. We encourage open dialogue, shared learning, and supportive relationships—especially across cultural and sectoral boundaries.

2. Scope of the Code

This Code of Conduct applies to all:

  • Residents

  • Participants in any THENGOIFKF programme (including the Convergence Residency, screenings, workshops, and student initiatives)

  • Staff, facilitators, mentors, and consultants

  • Partners, sponsors, visiting professionals, and volunteers

  • Attendees of any THENGOIFKF event—online or in person

3. Behavioral Expectations

3.1. Respectful Communication

Participants must:

  • Communicate thoughtfully and constructively

  • Welcome diverse viewpoints without resorting to insults or hostility

  • Listen actively and avoid interrupting or dominating discussions

  • Use inclusive language

3.2. Healthy Collaboration

We encourage:

  • Sharing resources and credit

  • Honoring agreed workflows and deadlines

  • Openness to feedback

  • Transparency in decision-making

3.3. Anti-Harassment & Anti-Discrimination

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:

  • Harassment (verbal, physical, written, digital)

  • Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, nationality, gender, sexuality, disability, age, religion, or socioeconomic status

  • Sexual harassment, including unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments, or coercive behavior

  • Bullying, intimidation, or abuse of position

3.4. Physical & Emotional Safety

Participants must refrain from:

  • Acts or threats of violence

  • Behavior that jeopardizes another person’s wellbeing

  • Creating unsafe working or living conditions

3.5. Substance Use

While we respect personal choices, the use of alcohol or other substances should never:

  • Impair one’s ability to participate safely and respectfully

  • Create discomfort or unsafe conditions for others

Illegal substances are strictly prohibited at all THENGOIFKF events and venues.

3.6. Privacy & Confidentiality

Participants must:

  • Respect personal boundaries

  • Seek consent before sharing private information, images, or work-in-progress

  • Safeguard sensitive organizational or personal data

4. Misconduct & Reporting

4.1. What to Do If You Experience or Witness Misconduct

Anyone who experiences or observes a violation of this Code should report it immediately. You may contact:

  • A designated THENGOIFKF staff member

  • A residency or program coordinator

  • Our confidential reporting email: [email protected]

5. Commitment to Continuous Improvement

THENGOIFKF is an evolving global platform. As our programmes expand, and as we engage with more diverse communities, we continuously evaluate and strengthen our policies to uphold best practices in safety, inclusion, and creative collaboration.

We welcome feedback from all participants and partners.

6. A Shared Responsibility

By engaging with THENGOIFKF in any capacity, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and contribute to a community rooted in respect, safety, creativity, and shared purpose.

Together, we create an environment where bold ideas, meaningful dialogue, and transformative collaboration can flourish.