In keeping with our vision, mission and values, AzuKo is committed to maintaining the highest degree of ethical conduct amongst all its employees and associated personnel. To help increase understanding, this Code of conduct details AzuKo’s expectations.
SCOPE AND PURPOSE
This Code applies to all persons working for us or on our behalf in any capacity including but not limited to employees at all levels, workers, trustees, interns, volunteers, agents, contractors, external consultants, business partners, local partners, suppliers and distributors, wherever located, whether paid or unpaid, (“Staff”).
The purpose of this Code is to set out the conduct expected of Staff whilst working for or on our behalf, and forms part of all contracts of employment or agreements. It is applicable at all times. Breaches may result in disciplinary action, dismissal, and in some cases may lead to criminal prosecution.
Whilst recognising that local laws and cultures differ considerably from one country to another, AzuKo is a UK-based International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO), and therefore the Code is based on UK, International and UN standards. Staff are expected to uphold local law wherever they operate, except where this Code is more stringent, in which case it applies. The Code also reflects AzuKo’s fundamental beliefs and is a commitment to ensuring that Staff avoid using possible unequal power relationships for their own benefit.
This Code will be reviewed regularly, and AzuKo may amend it at any time. Staff are responsible for reviewing and complying with it.
CODE OF CONDUCT STANDARDS
As AzuKo Staff I will:
Uphold the integrity and reputation of AzuKo by ensuring that my professional and personal conduct is consistent with AzuKo’s values and standards
I will treat all people fairly with respect and dignity
When working in an international context or travelling internationally on behalf of AzuKo, I will be observant of all local laws and be sensitive to local customs
I will seek to ensure that my conduct does not bring AzuKo into disrepute and does not impact on or undermine my ability to undertake the role for which I am employed or engaged
I will not work under the influence of alcohol or use, or be in possession of, illegal substances on AzuKo premises or accommodation.
I will conduct my behaviour in a manner that does not undermine national or international perceptions of AzuKo’s impartiality.
Not engage in abusive or exploitative conduct
I will not engage in sexual activity with children (persons under the age of 18). Mistaken belief in the age of a child is not a defence.
I will not exchange money, employment, goods or services for sex, including sexual favours. All forms of humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour are prohibited.
I will not engage in sexual relationships with beneficiaries, since they are based on inherently unequal power dynamics
I will not engage in any commercially exploitative activities with children or vulnerable adults including child labour or trafficking
I will not physically assault another person
I will not emotionally or psychologically abuse another person
I will not engage in any exploitative, abusive or corrupt relationships.
Ensure the safety, health and welfare of all Staff
I will adhere to all legal and organisational health and safety requirements in force at my location of work
I will comply with any local security guidelines and be proactive in informing management of any necessary changes to such guidelines
I will behave in a manner such as to avoid any unnecessary risk to the safety, health and welfare of myself and others, including the communities with whom we work
Be responsible for the use of information, assets and resources to which I have access by reason of my employment or engagement with AzuKo
I will ensure that I use information, assets and resources entrusted to me in a responsible manner and will account for all money and property, following the appropriate policy and procedural requirements.
I will not use IT equipment, software or email and social media platforms to engage in activity that is illegal under local or international law or that encourages conduct that would constitute a criminal offence. This includes any material that intimidates or harasses any group based on protected characteristics, or encourages extremism.
I will not use IT equipment to view, download, create, distribute or save in any format inappropriate or abusive material including but not limited to pornography or depictions of child abuse
Perform my duties and conduct my private life in a manner that avoids conflicts of interest
I will declare any financial, personal or family (or close intimate relationship) interest in matters of official business which may impact on the work of AzuKo
I will not be involved in awarding benefits, contracts for goods or services, employment or promotion within AzuKo, to any person with whom I have a financial, personal, family (or close intimate relationship) interests
I will seek permission before agreeing to being nominated as a prospective candidate or another official role for any political party
I will not accept significant gifts or any remuneration from governments, communities with whom we work, donors, suppliers and other persons which have been offered to me as a result of my employment or engagement with AzuKo.
I will not abuse my position as AzuKo Staff by requesting any service or favour from others in return for assistance by AzuKo
Avoid involvement in any criminal activities, activities that contravene human rights or those that compromise the work of AzuKo
I will contribute to combating all forms of illegal activities. For clarity, AzuKo takes a zero-tolerance approach to fraud, bribery, corruption and money laundering.
I will notify AzuKo of any unspent criminal convictions or charges prior to employment or engagement
I will notify AzuKo if I face any criminal charges during my employment or engagement
Uphold confidentiality
I will exercise due care in all matters of official AzuKo business, and not divulge any confidential information relating to colleagues, work-related matters or any sensitive information unless legally required to do so
COMPLAINTS AND REPORTS
Staff are obligated to bring to the attention of AzuKo’s CEO any potential incident, abuse or concern that they witness, are made aware of, or suspect which appears to breach the standards contained in this Code. Staff reporting concerns are protected by AzuKo’s Whistleblowing policy.
Staff who have a complaint or concern relating to breach of the Code should report it immediately to AzuKo’s CEO. If the individual does not feel comfortable reporting to the CEO (for example if they feel that the report will not be taken seriously, or if that person is implicated in the concern) they may report to an AzuKo Trustee.
Those receiving reports or concerns are obliged to action or refer the report immediately as per the AzuKo’s Complaints policy and procedures.
