Auttash is grounded in its values and principles, and in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights where local laws or customs conflict with those instruments. The code applies to all members, staff, volunteers, consultants and implementing partners while representing or working in the name of Auttash.
Governance and Code of Conduct
A rights-based organization. Everyone who works with us upholds human rights and children’s rights in their decisions, attitudes and actions, in line with the approved code of conduct.
Governance and Code of Conduct
01
Purpose and scope
The code protects the dignity of people we serve, especially children, and aligns conduct with the constitution, the Voluntary and Humanitarian Work Act of 2006, and internationally recognized humanitarian principles.
02
Humanitarian principles
We are committed to humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence. Assistance is based on need alone, without discrimination on grounds of ethnicity, religion, gender, political affiliation or origin, and programmes are not used for partisan or military purposes.
03
Child protection
Any exploitation, abuse, neglect or violence against children is prohibited. Staff must not be alone with a child outside a clear professional setting. Children must not be photographed without caregiver consent and a legitimate purpose. Any concern is reported immediately through the approved channel; unauthorized private investigations are forbidden.
04
Protection from sexual exploitation and abuse
Sexual exploitation and abuse are strictly prohibited. Sexual relationships with beneficiaries and with anyone under 18 are forbidden. Aid, employment or protection must never be exchanged for sexual services. Violations result in immediate dismissal and referral to competent authorities.
05
Respect and dignity
All beneficiaries and colleagues are treated with respect. Bullying, harassment, discriminatory speech and abuse of power are prohibited. We respect cultural context and involve women, men and youth in designing interventions.
06
Integrity and anti-corruption
Funds are managed under the 2013 financial regulations: official bank accounts and dual-signature disbursement by the Finance Director with the President or a deputy. Bribery, large gifts, embezzlement, undisclosed conflicts of interest and private use of organizational resources are forbidden, as is alcohol or any substance that impairs work or the organization’s reputation.
07
Confidentiality and data protection
Data on beneficiaries, children and staff is confidential and shared only for a professional need or legal duty. Images or stories that put children or survivors at risk must not be published.
08
Accountability to affected people
We provide safe, confidential complaint and feedback channels and tell communities how to report without fear of retaliation. Complaints are reviewed and closed fairly and within a reasonable time.
09
Duty of care and safety
Staff follow field security procedures and must not put teams or communities at risk. Incidents are reported immediately to management.
10
Reporting and sanctions
Everyone must report violations in good faith. Malicious reporting is prohibited. Sanctions follow the constitution: notice, warning or dismissal, with protection for good-faith whistleblowers.
Financial regulations
Organizational funds are held in official bank accounts at headquarters and in the states. Withdrawals require a fixed signature of the Finance Director together with the President or a deputy, plus a third reserve signatory. The financial year runs from 1 January to 31 December. The Finance Director submits a monthly report to the Executive Board, and the annual budget is reviewed by a legal auditor or certified accountant.
Pledge
I confirm that I have read and understood the code of conduct and will abide by its principles throughout my work, relationship or representation of Auttash Organization for Peace and Development. I understand that a breach may, according to the harm caused, lead to immediate disciplinary action including dismissal. I will raise through the proper management channels any matter that may violate these standards.