The organizers of Living Data 2027, Biodiversity Information Standards (TDWG), Group on Earth Observations Biodiversity Observation Network (GEO BON), Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections (SPNHC), International Barcode of Life (iBOL), and Quebec Centre for Biodiversity Science (QCBS), are dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of ethnicity, religion, national origin, professional status, physical appearance, physical ability, neurodivergence, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, or other personal characteristics. By registering for or participating in any conference-related activity, you agree to abide by this Code of Conduct, which applies to all sessions, field trips, social events, and interactions within the local community. As a participant in the conference, you represent your organization(s) and the shared values of our chosen professions.

Purpose

The conference is a platform for constructive dialogue, professional exchange, and collaborative engagement, reflecting the shared values of the biodiversity and sustainability communities. We value the diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, and expertise participants bring to the event and aim to create an environment where everyone feels safe, welcomed, respected, and valued.

Expectations for Participants

We ask all participants to:

Engage Respectfully
- Treat all individuals with respect, courtesy, and consideration. Recognize power dynamics that extend beyond seniority, including those related to cultural, geographic, linguistic, and educational backgrounds, as well as job status. All participants should be aware of their statements and behavior regardless of age, gender or level of experience in the community. All individuals should be treated fairly and with respect.
- Value the diversity of views, opinions, and expertise of conference hosts and participants.
- Communicate openly, critiquing ideas rather than individuals and avoiding personal attacks.
- Be mindful of cultural norms, including appropriate attire, language, and customs.
Participate Professionally
- Foster an environment of collaboration and fairness. Approach discussions with an open mind and a willingness to learn from others.
- Honor time limits for presentations and discussions. Do not interrupt speakers or participants, and wait to be called on to participate in discussions.
- Balance speaking and listening time in group settings, creating space for new and early-career participants to contribute.
Ensure Accessibility and Transparency
- Cite sources appropriately, including the use of AI-generated text or images, and ensure proper licensing for graphics, images and other rights protected media and materials.
- Respect the confidentiality of streamed or recorded conference materials and refrain from unauthorized sharing.

Unacceptable Behavior

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:

Harassment and Discrimination: Includes but is not limited to verbal, physical, or written harassment based on gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or other characteristics.
Intimidation or Abuse: Deliberate intimidation, stalking, inappropriate physical contact, verbal abuse, inappropriate language or unwelcome attention.
Disruption: Sustained interruptions of sessions, panels, or other conference activities.
Retaliation: Any threats or intimidation toward individuals reporting violations of this code or supporting such reports.
Unwanted photography: Taking photographs or videos of individuals or groups during the meeting without their knowledge or consent. This restriction does not apply to photography or video taken by individuals authorized by the Living Data 2027 Organizing Committee for the purpose of officially documenting or recording the meeting.

Enforcement and Reporting

Violations of this Code of Conduct will be addressed at the discretion of the Conference Organizing Committee, potentially in liaison with organizational representatives. Consequences may include:

Immediate removal from conference activities without refund.
Prohibition from future events or forums.
Reporting to relevant authorities or employers as necessary.

If you experience or witness harassment, abuse, or any behavior violating this Code of Conduct, please:

Contact conference staff at the registration desk.
Email the organizing team at ccc@tdwg.org. Reports will be treated confidentially, and all parties involved will be protected from retaliation or further harm.

Commitment to Resolution

The conference organizers will respond to reported incidents promptly, ensuring fairness and confidentiality throughout the process. Both complainants and respondents may appeal decisions to the Conference Organizing Committee, whose judgment will be final.