1. Our Commitment to Ethical Conduct

The International Youth Federation (IYF) is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, accountability, and transparency in all its activities. Upholding ethical principles is essential to maintaining the trust of young people, communities, partners, donors, and all individuals engaged with IYF.

All staff, volunteers, consultants, and representatives are expected to act honestly, responsibly, and in the best interests of the organisation at all times.


2. Scope and Applicability

This Ethics & Reporting / Whistleblowing framework globally, across all IYF offices, programmes, activities, and eventsto:

  • All IYF staff, volunteers, interns, consultants, and representatives
  • Members of governing bodies and leadership
  • Individuals and organisations acting on behalf of IYF


3. Ethical Standards

IYF personnel are expected to:

  • Act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism
  • Avoid conflicts of interest, or disclose them promptly when they arise
  • Use IYF resources responsibly and for authorised purposes only
  • Respect confidentiality and data protection obligations
  • Treat all individuals with dignity, fairness, and respect
  • Comply with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies
  • Unethical conduct undermines IYF’s mission and will not be tolerated.


4. What Should Be Reported

Reports may be made even if there is uncertainty; good-faith reporting is always supported. Individuals are encouraged—and expected—to report any suspected or actual misconduct, including but not limited to:

  • Fraud, corruption, or financial misconduct
  • Abuse of authority or misuse of organisational resources
  • Breaches of the Code of Conduct or Safeguarding policies
  • Harassment, discrimination, or retaliation
  • Conflicts of interest not properly disclosed
  • Serious violations of laws, regulations, or IYF policies


5. Whistleblowing Protection

Any form of retaliation against a whistleblower is itself a serious violation and may result in disciplinary action. IYF is committed to protecting individuals who raise concerns in good faith. Whistleblowers will:

  • Not face retaliation, harassment, or adverse consequences
  • Be treated with respect and confidentiality
  • Be supported throughout the reporting process


6. How to Report a Concern

Reports may be made verbally or in writing and, where permitted by law, anonymously. Concerns may be reported through one or more of the following channels:

  • A direct supervisor or manager
  • A designated IYF ethics, compliance, or safeguarding focal point
  • The Human Resources function or senior management
  • Other confidential reporting mechanisms established by IYF


7. Handling of Reports

IYF will determine appropriate actions based on the nature and severity of the concern, which may include internal investigation, corrective measures, or referral to external authorities where required. All reports will be:

  • Taken seriously and assessed promptly
  • Handled impartially and confidentially
  • Reviewed by authorised personnel only
  • Addressed in a fair and proportionate manner


8. Confidentiality and Data Protection

Information related to ethics and whistleblowing reports is handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with applicable data protection and privacy laws. Information is shared strictly on a need-to-know basis.


9. Responsibilities

All IYF Personnel

  • Uphold ethical standards
  • Report concerns promptly and in good faith
  • Cooperate with any review or investigation


Managers and Leaders

  • Foster an ethical and open culture
  • Respond appropriately to concerns
  • Protect whistleblowers from retaliation


10. Consequences of Misconduct

Violations of ethical standards or retaliation against whistleblowers may result in:

  • Disciplinary measures
  • Termination of employment or engagement
  • Legal or regulatory action where applicable


11. Acknowledgement

All individuals engaged with IYF may be required to confirm that they have read, understood, and agree to comply with this Ethics & Reporting / Whistleblowing framework.