CODE OF ETHICS AND CONDUCT POLICY

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to define the ethical principles and standards of conduct that all individuals and stakeholders within the Young Volunteers Association must follow, strengthening institutional reliability, transparency, and accountability.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Board members
  • Employees
  • Volunteers
  • Consultants
  • Project partners
  • Service providers

3. Core Ethical Principles

3.1. Honesty and Reliability

All activities are based on truthfulness, honesty, and trust. Misleading information is not provided.

3.2. Impartiality

Personal interests, political views, or individual relationships do not affect decision-making processes.

3.3. Transparency

Activities, decision processes, and resource use are conducted in an open and traceable manner.

3.4. Accountability

The Association is responsible for all its activities and the resources it uses.

3.5. Respect and Human Dignity

All individuals are treated with respect, inclusivity, and equality.

3.6. Rights-Based Approach

All work is conducted within a framework that respects the rights of children and youth.

4. Code of Conduct

4.1. General Behavior
  • Professional and respectful communication is maintained
  • Actions represent ethical values when representing the organization
  • Actions that damage the organization’s reputation are avoided
4.2. Conflict of Interest
  • Conflicts between personal interests and association interests are declared
  • Impartiality is maintained in decision-making
  • No advantage is gained through close relationships
4.3. Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery
  • Bribery, commission, or unauthorized payments are strictly prohibited
  • Resources are not used for unintended purposes
  • All expenses are recorded
4.4. Resource Usage
  • Financial and in-kind resources are used efficiently and appropriately
  • Waste and misuse are prevented
4.5. Confidentiality and Data Protection
  • Personal data is protected
  • Information about children is handled with special sensitivity
  • No unauthorized data sharing occurs
4.6. Communication and Representation
  • Care is taken when representing the organization in social media or public spaces
  • Hate speech, discrimination, and dissemination of false information are avoided
4.7. Safe Working Environment
  • No tolerance for harassment, mobbing, or mistreatment
  • A safe and respectful work environment is maintained

5. Prohibited Conduct

  • Discrimination
  • Sexual harassment and abuse
  • Physical or psychological violence
  • Bribery and corruption
  • Abuse of authority
  • Personal use of organization resources
  • Unauthorized sharing of confidential information

6. Reporting Mechanism

  • Ethical violations can be reported confidentially
  • The reporter is protected
  • All reports are taken seriously

7. Violation Procedure

  • Investigation is initiated if a violation is detected
  • Disciplinary procedures are applied
  • If necessary, relevant authorities are notified

8. Responsibilities

Board of Directors: Ensures policy implementation and strengthens ethical culture

Volunteers and Staff: Comply with rules and report violations

All Stakeholders: Act in accordance with this policy

9. Training and Awareness

  • Ethics awareness training is provided
  • Regular updates for volunteers and staff are conducted

10. Monitoring and Updating

  • The policy is regularly reviewed
  • Developed based on feedback

11. Enforcement

This policy enters into force upon approval by the Board of Directors of the Young Volunteers Association.

12. Commitment

The Young Volunteers Association commits to being an ethical, transparent, reliable, and accountable civil society organization.