Silk Cities is committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and professionalism. We believe in fostering an inclusive, respectful, and intellectually engaging environment for individuals and organisations involved in our projects. The ethical codes below are the guidelines for our projects by our team and partners, collaborators, participants, and attendees.
- Respect and Inclusivity: We value diversity and inclusion and pledge to treat all project participants with respect and dignity, regardless of differences in race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, or other characteristics.
- Intellectual Integrity: We uphold the principles of academic integrity including honesty, trust, fairness, respect, responsibility, and courage as defined by the “International Center for Academic Integrity” - ICAI in “The Fundamental Values of Academic Integrity” (third edition 2021), available from https://academicintegrity.org/images/pdfs/20019_ICAI-Fundamental-Values_R12.pdf.
- Objectivity and Neutrality: We strive to present information and conduct research impartially, prioritising evidence-based solutions over personal agendas or political influence.
- Open Exchange of Ideas: We encourage open and constructive dialogue, debate, and exchange of ideas while maintaining a supportive and collegial atmosphere.
- Conflict of Interest: We disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may influence our participation in project activities, such as financial interests, affiliations, or personal relationships that could be perceived as biasing our contributions.
- Professional Conduct: We always maintain professional conduct, within our internal operation and the lifecycle of our projects. Unprofessional behaviour such as harassment, bullying, propaganda, and disruptive behaviour is not tolerated.
- Confidentiality: We respect the confidentiality of sensitive information entrusted to us by partners, collaborators, and participants during presentations, discussions, or interactions.
- Data Protection: We treat any personal data received in our projects with respect. Silk Cities complies with the UK Data Protection Act 2018. We do not sell personal information to a third party.
- Sustainability and Well-being: We promote sustainable approaches to the formation and implementation of our projects and endeavour not to cause environmental or cultural harm to the local community and city where we host our project.
- Endorsement: We do not endorse any ideas, thoughts or beliefs being brought forward in our events, or publication and other projects by participants and third parties. Silk Cities does not accept responsibility for those ideas. They should not be construed as being endorsed by Silk Cities.
- Transparency and Accountability: We are committed to transparency and accountability. We strive to be open about our funding sources, activities, and decision-making processes. We are accountable for our conduct and welcome receiving feedback and concerns.
This Code of Ethics serves as a guiding light for Silk Cities. Individuals agree to uphold this Code of Ethics in collaborating with Silk Cities as a staff, volunteer, or advisor; and collaborating or participating in the Silk Cities’ projects of any kind, such as conferences and competitions.
By adhering to these principles, we strive to foster respectful and equal collaboration within our organisation and across our projects.
Last updated on May 2024.