HISP SA is committed to providing an ethical, respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for all individuals
associated with our organization.

1. 1.  All individuals associated with HISP SA are expected to:
      a. Treat others with respect and dignity, regardless of differences in background, characteristics, or
      opinions.
      b. Act in ways that demonstrate integrity and social responsibility, that promote the well-being of our
      fellows, colleagues, employees, the environment, and the communities within which the organisation
      operates.
      c. Comply with the spirit and letter of all applicable laws and regulations; refer to our Illegal Activities
      Policy for additional guidance.
      d. Communicate openly, professionally, and constructively, fostering a welcoming environment for diverse
      perspectives.
      e. Act responsibly, avoid disruptive or disrespectful behaviour, and prioritize the best interests of the
      organisation and the community/environments within which it operates.
      f. Display behaviours which are in support of the values if the company, as outlined in the “Required
      Behaviours” of the HISP Employment Contract.
      g. Respect the privacy and consent of others, refraining from sharing personal information without
      permission, in line with our Privacy Policy and Information Security Policy.
      h. Avoid relationships or activities that present or involve a perception of a power-gradient; such as that
      between a member of line- or project-management and subordinates, or situations that may be
      perceived to imply coercion by someone in a senior position, or which may be construed as misuse of
      position, power, or title.
      i. Avoid relationships that may affect, or may reasonably be perceived to affect, your objectivity, integrity,
      and independence or impair professional judgement.
      j. Use inclusive language and avoid derogatory, offensive, defamatory, libellous or discriminatory
      language or behaviour.
      k. Foster a collaborative atmosphere by engaging in positive discussions and embracing diverse
      viewpoints.
      l. Faithfully comply with all HISP SA policies, procedures and practice requirements.
      m. Report any violations of this Code of Conduct to the appropriate channels within the organization.
   2. The following behaviours are strictly prohibited:
      a. Harassment, including offensive comments, unwelcome advances, lewd or innuendo-laden jokes,
      physical, emotional or mental intimidation, or any behaviour that creates or may create a hostile,
      imbalanced, or uncomfortable environment.
      b. Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, or any other
      characteristic.
      c. Bullying, personal attacks, or any form of abusive conduct towards others.
      d. Sharing confidential or sensitive information without proper authorisation.
      e. Retaliation against individuals who report violations of this Code of Conduct.
      f. Engaging in any behaviour that disrupts the organisation’s activities or creates a negative atmosphere.
      3. If employees, agents or contractors witness or experience behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, it must
      be reported to a designated representative or authority within HISP SA or via the anonymous Whistleblower
      portal on our website at https://www.hisp.org. Reports will be treated confidentially, and appropriate actions
      will be taken to address violations as per applicable policy or as described in the “Violation/Deviation” section
      below.
      4. As an organization committed to growth and innovation, we recognize that change is an essential part of our
      journey. We encourage all employees to approach change with awareness, openness, and a willingness to
      adapt. By embracing new ideas, processes, and perspectives, we strengthen our ability to evolve and remain
      resilient in a dynamic environment. This commitment to change requires mutual respect, active listening, and
      a proactive attitude to learn and grow together. Together, we cultivate a culture where change is viewed not as
      a challenge but as an opportunity for continuous improvement and collective success.

1. While HISP SA respects the personal and private opinions, beliefs, and political inclinations of its staff, any
postings on social media that may bring the organisation into disrepute, or which damage, defame, degrade, or
otherwise cast a negative light on HISP SA or its employees are forbidden.
2. HISP SA reserves the right to monitor all communications that use or pass through HISP digital assets,
equipment, or networks, in accordance with our Information Security Policy. Staff are reminded to be respectful
and dignified in their communications and use of social media platforms, and to avoid any inappropriate posting
on public forums.

HISP SA is committed to continually reviewing and enhancing our ethics standards to adapt to evolving social
expectations, industry practices, and regulatory requirements. By adhering to this policy, we demonstrate and
affirm our commitment to maintaining the trust of our staff, stakeholders, funders and partners and building an
organisation that upholds our purpose of Building Better Lives, Together.