IJCB is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all participants. We do not tolerate any form of harassment, discrimination, or offensive behavior. This harassment policy applies to all IJCB 2023 attendees, including but not limited to speakers, presenters, organizers, sponsors, exhibitors, and staff.
Definition of Harrasment
Harassment includes, but is not limited to, offensive verbal comments, derogatory language or slurs, intimidation, stalking, unwanted physical contact, unwelcome advances, sexual innuendos, images or messages, deliberate intimidation, bullying, or any other inappropriate behavior that disrupts or causes distress to others. Any form of harassment, including but not limited to harrasment based on gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, age, religion or any other status protected by laws, will not be tolerated.
Expectations of Participants
All conference attendees are expected to adhere to this harassment policy by treating all individuals with respect and professionalism. Engage in open and constructive dialogue, and value the diversity and different perspectives within the scientific community.
Exhibitors are expected to refrain from using sexualized images, activities, or any other material in their booths. Additionally, they must avoid the use of sexualized clothing, uniforms, costumes, or any other element that may contribute to creating a sexualized environment.
Speakers are required to abstain from using sexual language or images in their talks unless it serves a scientific purpose. They should also avoid any language or images that could be considered harassment as defined in the policy above.
Participants asked to stop any harassing behavior are expected to comply immediately.
Reporting
If you experience or witness harassment during the conference, we encourage you to report it immediately to one of the conference DEI Chairs:
- John Howard, Maryland Test Facility, USA
- Ajita Rattani, Wichita State University, USA
- Albert Ali Salah, University of Utrecht, The Netherlands
Upon receipt of a harassment report, the ombuds will promptly investigate the matter in a fair and confidential manner. A brief statement of facts, a conclusion (proven/not proven) using a preponderance of the evidence standard, and a sanction will be prepared if a violation is proven.
Sanctions for violations may include, but are not restricted to, exclusion from specific conference events, exclusion from the entire conference, removal of related material from the online conference records, referral to the violator’s university or employer, and referral to law enforcement, as appropriate. In no case will registration fees or expenses be refunded by the conference.
By attending IJCB 2023, participants agree to comply with this harassment policy and understand that failure to do so may result in appropriate actions being taken against them.