Stim's Code of Conduct – a guide to our values
A Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines for how a company or organisation should run its operations in an ethical, socially and environmentally responsible manner. Here you can find the Code of Conduct that applies to Stim's members.
The need for a Code of Conduct for Stim has been raised in several contexts in recent years, partly as a result of increased focus on sustainability in society where companies and organisations are expected to address sustainability issues from a social and ecological — but also an economic — perspective. A Code of Conduct has also been requested by individual members, among other things in the form of a motion to the general meeting in 2019.
The Code of Conduct clarifies expectations for how we conduct our operations, what we stand for and what we at Stim consider to be responsible behaviour in areas such as:
- Ethics and the environment
- Human rights
- Working conditions / work environment
- Diversity and equal treatment
Code of Conduct – for those affiliated with Stim
The relationship between Stim and you as an affiliate is primarily governed by the terms of affiliation. They clarify, among other things, what Stim will do for you as a rights holder, but also the responsibilities you as an affiliate have so that we can manage your rights in the best possible way.
Stim's Codes of Conduct also clarify how you as an affiliate and those of us working within Stim should relate to one another. This code applies to those affiliated with Stim and is intended to guide you in our interactions, both at physical meetings and events and in other contacts. Publishers affiliated with Stim must ensure that their employees and other representatives are aware of and comply with the code. For Stim's employees, consultants and elected representatives there is a more comprehensive Code of Conduct that contains the same elements as this code.
Mutual respect
In order for us to form a strong association together, our relationship needs to be built on mutual respect, openness and trust. You as an affiliate should treat other affiliates, employees and elected representatives at Stim with respect and never act in a way that could be perceived as threatening, condescending or offensive. We do not accept degrading treatment, harassment or bullying on the basis of sex, gender identity or gender expression, nationality or ethnicity, religious belief, disability, sexual orientation or age. An inclusive and positive approach based on the above principles should guide all interaction within Stim.
Compliance with the Code of Conduct
If we become aware of actions that may be in violation of this Code of Conduct, we will investigate the situation and, if there is reason, take appropriate measures. If the actions are ones we assess as illegal, for example defamation, unlawful threats, incitement against a population group, etc., they will be reported to the police.
Reporting a violation
If you are aware of or experience behaviours, actions or other types of conduct that you believe violate this Code of Conduct, you should in the first instance raise the issue with the person concerned. This is often the best way to achieve changes in behaviour for minor offences. But you can always make a report to Stim: [email protected].
Your report will be handled by a dedicated investigation team led by Stim's chief legal counsel. The members of the investigation team are chosen based on the nature of the case to be investigated. The investigation will be carried out independently and objectively, with the aim of establishing and clarifying the facts surrounding the information you have provided; this should also be reflected in the composition of the investigation team.
Responsibility for the Code of Conduct
The Head of Members & Markets is responsible for the Code of Conduct, which is approved by Stim's board.