Conference Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct applies to all participants in the joint FIEC/Classical Association conference to be held in London 2019. Its aim is to ensure a positive and enjoyable intellectual, cultural and social experience for all.

1. This Code expresses values that are already fundamental to the participating bodies. FIEC’s primary aim is to foster cooperation among classical scholars and it does so in part by enabling direct contact between Delegates and by supporting classical studies on all continents. The Classical Association was founded in part to increase public awareness of the contribution and importance of classics and it explicitly welcomes members from all backgrounds.

2. In accordance with these foundational values this conference aims to be inclusive, and to embrace diversity in all its forms. It should to be a space for open debate and exchange of ideas free of harassment, bullying, and abuse. All participants are called on to play a part in bringing this about.

3. The conference welcomes participants regardless of gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, race, nationality, political views, or religious beliefs. It seeks to celebrate the diversity of modern Classics, and to increase the representation of those who for one reason or another have been marginalised in the past. This is reflected in the programme and in the selection of speakers and panels.

4. Participants are expected, both inside and outside formal academic sessions, to express themselves in ways that are considerate and respectful of others. Equally they are  expected to respond with courtesy and respect to others’ opinions. These values are central to civilised academic debate.

5. Participants should not use language that belittles or intimidates or bullies or mocks others. They should be aware of existing hierarchies within the discipline. Senior academics in particular are called on to be generous when possible in their interactions with junior colleagues. Chairs in particular are asked to actively challenge behaviour that falls short of these standards. Those who persist in unacceptable behaviour may be asked to leave a session immediately.

6. Harassment in all its forms is unacceptable. We understand harassment to be unwanted or uninvited conduct or attention which has the purpose or effect of undermining the dignity of an individual, or creates an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or offensive environment for the individual. Such conduct is an abuse of power and or privilege. Harassment is especially serious when directed at those with less power and privilege, including students, staff, and junior colleagues.

7. Sexual harassment is particularly to be deplored. Inappropriate physical or verbal contact, especially when persistent and clearly unwanted, is a serious breach of academic standards. Those who feel they have been subjected to sexual harassment – whether in academic sessions or at cultural of social events – are invited to report it to the conference organisers. We will at our discretion issue verbal warnings, report the behaviour to the officers of the relevant FIEC member association, and exclude individuals from the conference. In extreme cases it may also be necessary to involve the police.

We are confident that most participants are fully supportive of the principles embodied in this code, and that none will wish to be passive bystanders while abuse or bullying or harassment takes place. We call on all participants to actively support those subjected to unacceptable behaviour, to challenge those guilty of it, and to support session chairs and the conference organizers in their efforts to make this conference a positive, rewarding and enjoyable experience for all.