IFLA releases its Code of Conduct for Volunteers to uphold ethical standards
27 May 2025
IFLA is pleased to announce the official release of the IFLA Code of Conduct for Volunteers, a comprehensive framework designed to guide ethical behaviour, professionalism and accountability across all levels of the Federation.
The newly introduced Code outlines expected and required behaviours that support respect, fairness, and inclusivity, which help us create a welcoming and supportive community. The Code serves to protect everyone’s rights within IFLA and aligns with our mission to promote diversity and equity in all areas of work. This Code applies to all volunteers involved in IFLA activities, including board members, committee members, event participants, and others, whether they are attending in-person or virtual events.
Key areas covered include:
- Emphasis on IFLA’s shared values and guiding principles;
- Responsibilities and rights of volunteers: clear role description and flexibility in participation;
- Expectations for professional and ethical conduct: ensuring respect for privacy and an environment free from conflicts of interest, discrimination and harassment;
- Reporting, accountability and implementation of the Code.
The Code reflects our core values and serves as a roadmap for ethical decision-making. We expect all volunteers of the Federation to embrace these principles in their daily operations.
The Code is now available at IFLA’s Repository.
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IFLA Code of Conduct for Volunteers
This Code of Conduct (Code) has been created to guide volunteers working within the context of existing, approved IFLA Statutes, Rules of Procedure, Policies, Statements and Core Values. It outlines expected and required behaviours that support respect, fairness, and inclusivity, which help us creat...
The Code should be read in conjunction with the IFLA Statutes and Rules of Procedure, and IFLA Handbook. Training sessions in various formats will be provided to ensure full understanding and to support adherence to the code.
Translations into IFLA’s six other official languages (Arabic, Chinese. French, German, Russian and Spanish) to follow. If you would like to translate the IFLA Code of Conduct for Volunteers into another language, please contact us at [email protected] and we will provide you with a template and instructions.