SVRI Forum Code of Conduct

The SVRI Forum is a space for collaborative learning, open dialogue, and mutual respect, guided by feminist principles, kindness, and empathy. We are committed to fostering an inclusive, safe, and engaging environment where all participants – delegates, funders, practitioners, researchers, survivors, community representatives, media and others – can share knowledge and engage in safe and meaningful discussions.

The Forum encourages constructive debate and diverse perspectives while firmly opposing any actions that prevent open discussion and engagement.

Learn more about SVRI’s values

Core principles

Responsibility

All participants are expected to respect the laws of the host country and uphold the values of the SVRI Forum. By attending, you agree to conduct yourself in a manner that aligns with our shared commitment to ethical engagement and inclusion.

Support for meaningful participation

The Forum is designed to ensure broad and diverse participation. We provide spaces and structures to enable constructive discussions and ensure all voices can be heard.

Addressing disruptions thoughtfully

Our priority is always to facilitate dialogue. If tensions arise, the Forum encourages discussion and resolution before actions escalate to disruption. Support is available to mediate, de-escalate, or facilitate conversations to maintain a productive environment.

Access and participation

To protect the integrity of the Forum and its participants, the conference reserves the right to withdraw access for those who violate these principles. Anyone who has their access revoked can appeal the decision within 24 hours, and cases will be reviewed individually.

Managing disruptions

During sessions and events

Speakers have the right to be heard, and attendees have the right to listen without disruption.

If necessary, session Chairs may request a visual notice on-screen to encourage respect and restore order.

If disruptions persist, Forum organisers may take further action to ensure discussions continue.

Serious disruptions

Any threats, physical force, or destruction of property will be addressed under the host country’s laws and may result in removal from the Forum.

Participants who violate these principles may have their conference badge revoked and access suspended.

Right to appeal

If a participant feels their access has been unfairly revoked, they can submit an appeal within 24 hours for review by Forum organizers.

Public response

In cases of serious violations, the Forum may issue a public statement within the framework of the SVRI Forum Code of Conduct.

Creating a space for dialogue

We believe that meaningful engagement happens not just in sessions, but also through informal connections and discussions.

The Forum is committed to:

Ensuring space for diverse viewpoints in sessions and events.

Encouraging dialogue before tensions escalate to prevent disruptions.

Providing networking and discussion spaces to facilitate exchange.

For questions or support, contact us at forums@svri.org.

The SVRI Forum acknowledges the International AIDS Society (IAS) for their foundational work in shaping these principles and MenEngage for their valuable contributions to this Code of Conduct.