Updated on 19 June 2025
Introduction
Geneva Peace Week (GPW) is a leading annual forum in the international peacebuilding calendar, bringing together organizations in Geneva and their international partners to share knowledge and practice on diverse topics related to peace across contexts and disciplines.
GPW is hosted at the Maison de la Paix. This Code of Conduct outlines the expected standards of behaviour for all participants, speakers, staff and external providers, to ensure a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment.
1. Guiding Principles
All participants, including speakers, attendees, organizers, and volunteers, are expected to:
- Respect Diversity: Embrace the diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
- Foster Inclusivity: Promote an environment where all voices can be heard and valued.
- Engage Constructively: Participate in discussions with openness, curiosity, and a willingness to understand differing viewpoints.
- Uphold Integrity: Act with honesty and transparency in all interactions.
2. Unacceptable Behaviours
The following behaviours are considered unacceptable and will not be tolerated:
- Harassment: Any form of harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, or discrimination.
- Violence or Threats: Physical violence, threats of violence, or any behaviour that endangers the safety of others.
- Disruptive Conduct: Actions that significantly disrupt events, including unauthorized protests or interruptions.
- Intimidation: Behaviour that creates an atmosphere of fear or hostility.
3. Protest and Event Interruption Policy
GPW recognizes the importance of freedom of expression and the role of peaceful protest in democratic societies. To balance this with the need for orderly conduct:
- Authorized Protests: Protests or statements of dissent that are announced in advance and approved by the organizers will be permitted a few minutes during designated times.
- Unauthorized Interruptions: Individuals or groups who interrupt events without prior authorization will be asked to cease immediately. Failure to comply may result in removal from the venue.
- Safety Considerations: Any protest or demonstration must not compromise the safety or well-being of participants.
4. Reporting and Enforcement
- Reporting Incidents: Participants who experience or witness violations of this Code of Conduct should report the incident to event staff or organizers as soon as possible.
- Investigation: All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly, with confidentiality maintained to the extent possible.
- Consequences: Violations may result in actions including, but not limited to, warnings, removal from events, or notification to relevant authorities.
5. Commitment to a Safe Environment
GPW is committed to providing a space where all participants can engage without fear of harassment, discrimination, or violence. By attending GPW events, participants agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and contribute to a respectful and inclusive atmosphere.
5. Sanctions Against Breaches of the Code of Conduct
Geneva Peace Week maintains a zero-tolerance policy for behavior that compromises the safety and dignity of its participants. Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, the following sanctions may apply:
Violent Behavior
- Immediate removal from the venue.
- Permanent exclusion from all Geneva Peace Week events.
- Notification of security personnel and, where necessary, the Geneva police.
- Possible criminal charges in accordance with Swiss law.
Serious Disruption of Events
- Formal warning and immediate cessation of disruptive conduct.
- Removal from the event or venue if disruption persists.
- Revocation of participant accreditation or speaking privileges.
- Referral to authorities if the behavior is deemed threatening or incites unrest.
Sexual Harassment and Intimidation
- Confidential investigation by GPW organizers.
- Support offered to affected persons.
- Removal of the perpetrator from the venue.
- Referral to law enforcement for further action depending on the gravity.
Unauthorized Protests
- Verbal warning and invitation to cease disruption.
- Removal from the venue if not in compliance with protest protocols.
- Referral to security services for escalation if necessary.
In all cases, GPW organizers reserve the right to take immediate and appropriate action to protect the safety and integrity of its events. Serious offenses may lead to police involvement and legal prosecution under Swiss criminal law.
7. Useful contacts
General concerns or questions linked to Geneva Peace Week should be addressed to: gpw@gpplatform.ch
8. Legislation
Important Notice: The links provided below are for the official French versions as published by the Swiss federal government or the Geneva government. Unofficial English translations can be found online, including on the website of the Swiss federal government. However, unofficial translations are for guidance only and have no legal effect. The links provided are for guidance purposes only and the Geneva Graduate Institute undertakes no liability should the links fail to work or fail to access the correct and up-to-date version of the selected texts. Please make sure you are viewing the correct and up-to-date version. The references and links below are only a selection of legal sources. You are required to abide to all applicable laws and regulation regardless whether they are in the selection below.
Swiss Federal Law
Geneva Cantonal Law
Geneva Penal Act, of 17 November 2006 silgeneve.ch/legis/data/rsg/rsg_e4_05.htm
