CODE OF CONDUCT
At Unique Origin Foundation (UOF), our core values of Integrity, Respect, Courage, Optimism, Passion and Teamwork form the foundation of our reputation and guide our actions. To uphold these principles, UOF has established this Code of Conduct to provide clear guidance to all employees, consultants, independent experts, interns, and volunteers associated with our organization. This Code outlines the minimum standards for ethical conduct that everyone at UOF must adhere to.
At UOF, we place great trust in the personal integrity, good judgment, and common sense of those acting on our behalf, especially when dealing with situations not expressly covered by this Code. Failure to uphold the Code may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment, and in severe cases, criminal charges may be pursued.
Our Commitment to Integrity
Integrity is the cornerstone of our organization. We expect all individuals associated with UOF to:
- Act in good faith and with the utmost professionalism, showing responsibility, competence, and diligence in all their endeavours.
- Comply with UOF 's policies and all applicable laws, regulations, and rules, both domestic and international, in every country where we operate.
- Accurately report expenses and work performed in records such as expense reports and timesheets.
- Never engage in any acts of falsification, theft, embezzlement, diversion of funds, bribery, or fraud.
Commitment to Transparency
Transparency is vital to maintaining public trust and fulfilling our mission. Individuals associated with UOF must:
- Prioritize the interests of the organization in all professional activities and avoid personal benefit.
- Steer clear of conflicts of interest that could compromise independent judgment.
- Refrain from accepting gifts or favours exceeding 150 GBP from vendors, consultants, or grantees.
Embracing Accountability
L&NF holds itself and its associates accountable to the highest standards. All individuals associated with UOF must:
- Promptly disclose to their supervisor and the General Counsel's Office any information related to real or perceived conflicts of interest or impropriety.
- Exercise stewardship of UOF's assets and resources, wisely spending funds, adhering to donor wishes, and enhancing organizational performance.
- Manage programs, activities, staff, and operations with professionalism and a focus on optimizing overall organizational performance.
Respecting Confidentiality
Confidentiality is critical to maintaining the trust of our partners. Individuals associated with UOF must:
- Safeguard and not disclose any confidential information obtained during their work at UOF.
- Respect the confidentiality of relationships between UOF and its grantees, donors, and vendors.
Fostering Mutual Respect and Collaboration
At L&NF, we strive to foster constructive and respectful relationships. Individuals associated with UOF must:
- Support partners in building capacity for conservation programs and managing funds efficiently.
- Cultivate positive relationships with grant-seekers and partners based on mutual respect, effective communication, and acknowledging their expertise.
- Engage with indigenous peoples and local communities in a manner that respects their culture, laws, and practices, ensuring the right of free, prior, and informed consent.
Reporting Violations
Any violations of this Code of Conduct should be promptly reported to UOF.
Anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy
At UOF, we uphold a zero-tolerance approach towards bribery, kickbacks, and corruption in any form or under any circumstances. This policy applies to all UOF staff, agents, consultants, grantees, vendors, and representatives.
Corruption, defined as the misuse of power for personal gain, and bribery, encompassing offering or making payments or providing anything of value to gain an improper advantage, are strictly prohibited. This prohibition extends to payments made through intermediaries or third parties, even if the payments are not executed.
Compliance with anti-corruption laws and UOF 's internal anti-corruption policies is a serious matter, and any potential issues should be raised promptly, seeking additional guidance when necessary.
UOF conducts thorough investigations of bribery allegations and takes appropriate disciplinary action, including termination, against employees or individuals acting on UOF 's behalf who fail to comply with anti-corruption laws and policies.
Individuals violating applicable anti-corruption laws may face penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
At UOF, we are dedicated to upholding the highest ethical standards and fostering an environment of integrity, accountability, and mutual respect in our conservation efforts worldwide.