Code of Conduct for Meetings and Events

1. Purpose

The International Association for the History of Medicine (IAHM) is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and intellectually vibrant environment at all its meetings and events. This Code applies to the Inaugural General Meeting on 15 March 2026 and to all conferences, workshops, online events, and committee meetings organised by IAHM.

2. Scope

Participants

  • Members
  • Non-members
  • Speakers
  • Chairs
  • Organisers
  • Guests
  • Exhibitors
  • Sponsors
  • Volunteers

IAHM Spaces

  • In-person venues
  • Online platforms
  • Webinars and chat forums
  • Email lists
  • Event social media
  • Social functions

3. Core Principles

Respect

Respect for people, knowledge, and cultural and religious traditions.

Scholarly Integrity

Honest, rigorous, and fair engagement with evidence and argument.

Inclusivity

Openness to participants from diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Safety

Commitment to preventing harassment, discrimination, and bullying.

4. Expected Behaviour

  • Treat others with courtesy and respect.
  • Listen without interruption.
  • Use respectful language and professional discussion.
  • Support an inclusive environment.
  • Acknowledge others’ contributions and give proper credit.
  • Respect cultural and community sensitivities.
  • Follow event guidelines for recording, confidentiality, and venue rules.

5. Unacceptable Behaviour

  • Harassment in any form, including but not limited to:
    • Verbal or written comments that are hostile, derogatory, or demeaning.
    • Unwanted comments about a person’s gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, nationality, religion, disability, appearance, age, or professional status.
    • Sexual or suggestive comments, jokes, advances, or gestures.
    • Intimidation, stalking, or following.
  • Discrimination and exclusion
    • Denying or undermining someone’s participation because of personal characteristics or background.
    • Repeatedly talking over, interrupting, or ignoring particular individuals or groups.
  • Bullying or abusive behaviour
    • Aggressive questioning or personal attacks disguised as academic critique.
    • Public humiliation, ridiculing, or belittling of individuals or their work.
  • Unwanted physical contact
    • Any physical contact without clear, ongoing consent (e.g. touching, hugging, or other gestures that make others uncomfortable).
  • Misuse of position or power
    • Using seniority, institutional power, or professional influence to pressure others into unwanted personal, professional, or academic relationships.
    • Retaliation against anyone who raises a concern or complaint in good faith.
  • Breach of privacy or confidentiality
    • Sharing another participant’s personal information, images, or unpublished work without permission.
    • Recording sessions or discussions where recording is prohibited or has not been consented to.

6. Reporting Concerns

If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code:
  • Ask the individual to stop if you feel safe doing so.
  • Contact the meeting organisers or designated Code of Conduct contact.
  • Reports can be made verbally or in writing.
  • Confidentiality will be respected as far as possible.
Please include details such as time, location, individuals involved, and any support needed.

7. Response and Possible Actions

  • Informal reminder of the Code
  • Formal warning
  • Removal from sessions or events
  • Withdrawal of speaking or chairing roles
  • Suspension or revocation of meeting participation
  • Referral to the IAHM Executive Board

8. Confidentiality and Fairness

  • Reports will be handled with discretion and respect for all parties.
  • Information will be shared only with those who need to know in order to address the concern.
  • The person against whom an allegation is made will normally be informed of the substance of the concern and will have an opportunity to respond, consistent with natural justice and the need to protect participants.

9. Commitment

By registering for or attending an IAHM meeting, you help to create a community where:
  • Informal reminder of the Code
  • Formal warning
  • Removal from sessions or events
  • Withdrawal of speaking or chairing roles
  • Suspension or revocation of meeting participation
  • Referral to the IAHM Executive Board
IAHM thanks all participants for upholding this Code of Conduct and for contributing to a collegial and inclusive environment.
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