Royal Entomological Society Code of Conduct
Members of all types (fellow, member, student, associate) shall comply with the Bye-Laws of the Royal Entomological Society (RES) and the provisions of this Code of Conduct.
Members shall not engage in conduct, which may prejudice the reputation of the RES nor falsely or maliciously attempt to damage the reputation of another RES member.
All our members have:
- The right to be safe from harassment or discrimination in all its forms. The Royal Entomological Society (RES) is committed to ensuring that everyone is treated with respect and dignity and are not subjected to unfair or unlawful discrimination. (For further information about equity, diversity and inclusion: RES Equality and Diversity statement and policy.)
- The right to engage fully in all the RES activities and initiatives on offer.
- The right to have investigated any complaints or concerns, irrespective of career stage, employment status or any “protected characteristics” as per the Equality Act UK 2010.
At RES events or through Society activities, Members shall not refuse a reasonable request from another member for guidance or information and, where possible, should provide opportunities for the development of others new to insect science.
When representing the Society, Members shall consider the environmental consequences of their work and shall act to protect the environment wherever possible.
Members shall not make public statements relating to insect science on behalf of the RES unless appropriately authorised to do so.
When representing the Society, Members have a responsibility to serve the public interest in entomology and shall only offer their expertise within their competence. Any advice or opinion they give shall be objective, reliable and based on scientific evidence.
We are grateful for the contributions of all our members and non-members to our events and activities. If you are presenting, chairing or participating in a workshop at a RES conference or meeting, whether oral, poster, online or in-person, we ask everyone to consider the diversity of their audience whilst developing their talks, sessions and posters. This will ensure that what is delivered is as engaging, interesting and inclusive as possible.
We ask everyone to help us maintain an inclusive and safe Society for members, staff and the wider public by agreeing to the principles of our Code of Conduct:
- To be courteous, respectful and professional towards others online, in-print and in-person.
- To have regard for basic human rights and avoid any actions that adversely affect such rights.
- To value the diversity of everyone in the Society, enabling and nurturing their views and opinions.
- To comply with the law in the country, in which they reside and/or work.
- To not engage knowingly in conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, deceit or misrepresentation.
The Royal Entomological Society maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of staff harassment by its members.
Any reported incidents suspected to breach the terms of this Code of Conduct will be promptly and thoroughly investigated, and appropriate disciplinary actions may be taken by RES Council, up to and including termination of membership, to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all staff members and staff. Any member will have the right of appeal and representation during any investigation by Council.
If you feel you have experienced any harassment or discrimination or would like to report any concerns, please confidentially contact a member of the RES staff team or you can send a confidential email to any of the Society’s trustees (council@royensoc.co.uk).
All staff and trustees are committed to ensuring that members comply with the Code of Conduct, and everyone feels safe, included and without harassment or discrimination.
