Contents
1. Purpose and Applicability
This Code of Conduct sets out the standard of behaviour expected of everyone who represents African Solidarity Civic Organization (ASCO) — Executive Structure members, staff, volunteers, program participants, and partners acting on the Organization's behalf. It exists to protect the people we work with, the communities we serve, and the trust placed in ASCO as a civic organisation.
2. Core Principles
- Integrity — acting honestly, consistently, and in line with ASCO's stated values, whether or not anyone is watching.
- Respect — treating every person with dignity, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, age, or background.
- Non-discrimination — no one acting for ASCO may discriminate against or harass another person on any unlawful ground.
- Accountability — taking responsibility for one's actions and decisions, and welcoming reasonable oversight.
- Confidentiality — protecting personal and sensitive information encountered through ASCO's work.
- Non-violence — pursuing ASCO's objectives only through lawful, peaceful means, consistent with the Organization's public position against vigilantism.
3. Standards of Behaviour
Everyone representing ASCO is expected to:
- Comply with all applicable South African law at all times;
- Treat colleagues, program participants, partners, and members of the public with courtesy and professionalism;
- Never use their position within ASCO to intimidate, exploit, or take advantage of any person, particularly children, youth, and other vulnerable participants in ASCO's programmes;
- Avoid any form of harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, or abuse of power;
- Decline to participate in, encourage, or condone unlawful protest activity, violence, or vigilantism of any kind;
- Raise concerns about the conduct of others through the proper channels rather than through public disputes that could harm the Organization's reputation or mission.
4. Conflicts of Interest and Gifts
Executive Structure members, staff, and volunteers must disclose any personal, financial, or business interest that could reasonably be seen to conflict with their duties to ASCO, including relationships with contractors, donors, or partner organisations. No one acting for ASCO may solicit or accept gifts, payments, or favours intended to influence their conduct in that role.
5. Use of Organizational Resources
ASCO's funds, equipment, digital accounts, branding, and other resources must be used only for the Organization's lawful purposes. Anyone with access to ASCO's website, admin systems, financial accounts, or social media channels is responsible for keeping login credentials secure and must not share them with unauthorised persons.
6. Public Statements and Social Media
Only the Official Spokesperson, Executive Director, or a person specifically authorised by the Executive Structure may issue public statements on ASCO's behalf. Personal social media activity by Executive Structure members, staff, or volunteers should not be presented as an official ASCO position unless expressly authorised, and should remain consistent with ASCO's values even when posted in a personal capacity.
7. Reporting Concerns
Anyone who witnesses or experiences a breach of this Code — including abuse, exploitation, discrimination, or financial misconduct — should report it promptly to the Executive Director, or, where the concern involves the Executive Director, to the National Chairperson. Reports can also be made confidentially to info@africansolidaritycivic.org. Concerns relating to the safety of children or vulnerable participants should be reported in line with ASCO's Safeguarding Policy. No one who reports a genuine concern in good faith will face retaliation.
8. Consequences of Breach
Breaches of this Code will be taken seriously and addressed proportionately, which may include a formal warning, suspension, removal from a role or programme, termination of a volunteer or staff relationship, or referral to law enforcement where conduct may be criminal. The Executive Structure is responsible for ensuring breaches are investigated fairly and consistently.