IENE Code of Conduct – Conflict of Interest Summary

Published the 05/12/2025 #CoI policy #IENE

IENE’s Conflict of Interest (CoI) Policy and Procedures is established to protect the integrity, and to ensure transparency and credibility of the Infrastructure and Ecology Network Europe (IENE), by identifying, disclosing, managing, and, when necessary, mitigating actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.

The Policy applies to all members (individuals and organisations) of IENE, and to non-member like employees, working group leads or project coordinators.

Core Principles

Act in the best interests of IENE and its mission.

  • Disclose any actual, potential, or perceived CoI in a timely manner.

  • Avoid actions or statements that might compromise IENE’s integrity, credibility, or reputation.

  • Recuse from decisions or roles where CoI cannot be mitigated.

Examples of Conflicts

  • Conflicts may be:
  • Actual – a direct conflict exists.
  • Potential – a conflict could reasonably arise in the future.
  • Perceived – a third party might reasonably believe there is a conflict.
  • Conflicts may be caused by:
  • Financial Interest: Monetary benefits tied to members may impact their objectivity or be perceived as such, and therefore may affect IENE’s credibility.
  • Personal Interest: Non-financial benefits, such as relationships or reputational concerns, that could affect IENE’s reputation.
  • Related Parties: Individuals or organizations closely associated with members, or employees that may affect IENE’s reputation or credibility.

How to Disclose

Submit an Annual Declaration Form (mandatory for formal / decision-making roles).

Breach of Policy

  • May result in suspension from activities, roles or termination of IENE membership (following due processes) after review.

Governance and Oversight

  • All disclosures are treated confidentially and fairly.
  • All potential reports or accusations of CoI must be based on demonstrable facts and not used to harass or discredit members.