Ensuring a Great Event Experience for Everyone
The World Planning Congress in Saudi Arabia is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and harassment-free experience for everyone, regardless of gender identity and expression, age, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, nationality, or religion.
All participants - whether you are attending, speaking, presenting, exhibiting, sponsoring, serving on a panel, or working with us - are expected to adhere to this Code of Conduct. Our aim is to create an inclusive, respectful, and professional environment where everyone can engage and benefit.
This Code of Conduct draws on two sources:
- The Event Code of Conduct designed for participants at the World Planning Congress.
- The ISOCARP Code of Conduct for Members, which sets ethical and professional standards for planners and members of our community.
1. Be Respectful
Treat all participants - including staff, volunteers, exhibitors, sponsors, and fellow delegates - with courtesy and dignity.
Respect differing viewpoints and engage in discussions with open-mindedness and professionalism.
Be mindful of cultural sensitivities, local customs, and applicable laws in Saudi Arabia, including the dress code. Additional details can be found on the Visit Saudi website: https://visa.visitsaudi.com/home/publicdecorum.
Avoid actions that endanger others or compromise their safety.
Smoking, vaping, and tobacco use are not allowed in indoor common areas or open public spaces. Please partake only where and when permitted.
As per the ISOCARP Code of Conduct, members and participants must treat colleagues, partners, and stakeholders with respect and refrain from any form of abuse, exploitation, or intimidation.
2. Harassment-Free Environment
The Congress maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, bullying, or discriminatory behaviour of any kind.
Avoid offensive, demeaning, or discriminatory language or gestures, including profanity, obscenity, or slurs based on race, religion, gender, or ethnicity.
Unwelcome attention, physical contact, or sexual advances are not permitted.
ISOCARP Members must foster inclusive practices, avoid discrimination, and actively promote gender equality and diversity in professional settings.
3. Respect Privacy
Do not take photographs, videos, or recordings of delegates without their explicit consent.
Respect confidentiality in professional discussions, private meetings, or unpublished material unless consent to share has been provided.
Respect the personal and professional boundaries of others at all times.
4. Inclusivity
Be mindful of inclusivity and diversity in conversations and activities.
Encourage and make space for underrepresented voices in sessions, panels, and workshops.
Avoid monopolising discussions and ensure others have opportunities to contribute.
ISOCARP Members are expected to foster inclusivity, engage in knowledge sharing, and actively encourage broad participation in planning dialogues and initiatives.
5. Digital Etiquette
Use appropriate and respectful language in all online platforms, including chat functions, Q&A sessions, and social media.
Respect other participants' contributions and intellectual property and avoid confrontational language on digital platforms.
Avoid spamming, trolling, or disruptive digital behaviour - kindly note that the Saudi Arabia policies have zero tolerance for such behaviours.
6. Sharing of Badges and Registration Codes
Badges and registration codes are personal and non-transferable.
Sharing, swapping, or misusing badges or digital access codes is strictly prohibited.
Each badge or code is linked to a registered individual and grants access accordingly for that individual.
Misuse undermines event security and integrity; violators may face immediate removal and future bans in accordance with event policies and applicable regulations.
7. Professional Integrity
Speakers, panelists, delegates, and presenters are expected to present responsibly, avoiding plagiarism, misrepresentation, or misinformation.
Exhibitors and sponsors must showcase their products and services truthfully, adhering to event regulations.
Delegates should respect session schedules, avoid disruptions, and contribute constructively.
The ISOCARP Members Code of Conduct states that planners and members must adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards, ensuring transparency, accountability, and accuracy in their work.
8. Reporting Concerns
If you experience or witness harassment, intimidation, or inappropriate behaviour, please report it immediately to a member of the conference organising team.
Reports will be handled confidentially and investigated promptly.
No retaliation will be tolerated against individuals who raise good-faith concerns.
Members are expected to maintain accountability and cooperate fully with disciplinary or ethical reviews in cases of misconduct.
9. Consequences for Violating the Code of Conduct
We have zero tolerance for threats, violence, harassment, or abuse. Participants who fail to follow the Code of Conduct may face the following actions:
- Immediate removal from the event without warning or refund.
- Disqualification from participating in future ISOCARP or World Planning Congress events.
- Bans from speaking, exhibiting, sponsoring, or engaging on official platforms.
- Reporting unlawful behaviour to local or national authorities.
- Members found in violation of ISOCARP's Code of Conduct may be subject to disciplinary measures, including suspension or termination of membership.
10. Continuous Commitment
The World Planning Congress Event Code of Conduct will be reviewed and updated regularly. It is non-negotiable and applies to all participants, both in person and online.
By participating, you agree to uphold both:
- This Event Code of Conduct, and
- The ISOCARP Code of Conduct for Members.
Together, these frameworks ensure a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all.