1. Purpose and Scope

This Code establishes the ethical and professional standards required of all individuals certified or affiliated with The Neutrals Organization (hereafter “the Organization”).
It applies to all Certified Neutrals, Fellows, Institutional Partners, and any person acting under the Organization’s authority or representing its name or mark.

Ethical compliance is a condition of certification, renewal, and continued listing on the Global Registry.

2. Fundamental Principles

Every Certified Neutral shall uphold the following principles in spirit and in practice:

a. Independence

A Neutral shall maintain full independence of thought, judgment, and decision-making.
No external influence, financial interest, or relationship shall compromise neutrality.

b. Impartiality

All parties shall be treated equally, without favor, bias, or prejudice.
A Neutral shall immediately disclose any circumstance that might affect impartiality or create a perception of bias.

c. Integrity

The Neutral shall act with honesty, fairness, and transparency in all professional dealings.
False representations, exaggeration of credentials, or concealment of relevant facts constitute serious ethical breaches.

d. Competence

A Neutral shall accept appointments only within their level of skill, knowledge, and professional capability.
Continued education and awareness of current developments in the field are professional obligations.

e. Confidentiality

Information obtained during any dispute prevention or resolution process shall remain confidential and shall not be disclosed without consent, except as required by law or with explicit written authorization.

f. Professional Conduct

Certified Neutrals shall act in a manner that upholds the dignity of the profession, avoids conflicts of interest, and preserves the reputation of the Organization.

g. Accountability

Neutrals are personally responsible for their conduct and for adherence to the Code, Bylaws, and related policies.

3. Specific Ethical Obligations

3.1 Disclosure and Conflict Management

• Before accepting any engagement, a Neutral must disclose all actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.

• Upon discovery of a conflict after appointment, the Neutral must immediately inform the parties and, if necessary, withdraw from the matter.

3.2 Advertising and Representation

• Certified Neutrals may use the title “Certified Neutral – THE-NEUTRALS™” only in accordance with the Brand and Trademark Policy.

• Any public representation must be accurate and not imply institutional endorsement of personal services.

3.3 Acceptance of Appointments

• Neutrals shall accept appointments only when they can perform their duties diligently, competently, and without undue delay.

• Excessive caseloads or other commitments shall not compromise quality or fairness.

3.4 Fees and Transparency

• Fees, if applicable, shall be reasonable, transparent, and agreed in advance with parties.

• Under no circumstances shall a Neutral solicit or accept compensation that creates dependence or partiality.

3.5 Dignity and Respect

• Neutrals shall foster an environment of respect, inclusion, and civility for all participants.

• Harassment, discrimination, or intimidation of any form is strictly prohibited.

3.6 Use of Information

• A Neutral shall not exploit or use any confidential or case information for personal gain, publication, or other advantage without permission.

4. Duties to the Organization

a. To uphold and promote the mission, vision, and values of The Neutrals Organization.
b. To notify the Organization immediately of any disciplinary, criminal, or ethical proceedings initiated by any other professional body or authority.
c. To cooperate fully in any inquiry or investigation conducted under the Organization’s Discipline & Oversight Rules.
d. To contribute, where appropriate, to the growth, mentorship, and professional excellence of peers and next-generation neutrals.

5. Enforcement and Sanctions

a. Breaches of this Code shall be investigated under the Discipline & Oversight Rules.
b. Sanctions may include:

• Formal warning or reprimand;

• Suspension of certification or Registry listing;

• Revocation of certification;

• Termination of affiliation;

• Publication of disciplinary action (where appropriate).
  c. The Organization reserves the right to refer matters to law enforcement or regulatory authorities where legally required.

6. Reporting Misconduct

Any person may report alleged misconduct or ethical violations to the Organization in writing, providing sufficient details for review.
Reports are handled confidentially and investigated by the Ethics and Oversight Committee.

7. Interpretation and Review

The Independent Certification Board is responsible for interpretation of this Code and may issue supplementary guidelines or clarifications as necessary.
This Code is reviewed biennially to ensure alignment with international best practices and professional standards.

8. Acknowledgment

Every Certified Neutral shall sign or electronically affirm acknowledgment of this Code before certification is granted and again upon each renewal.

By signing, the Neutral confirms understanding and agreement to comply fully with the principles and obligations herein.

9. Effective Date

This Code of Ethical Conduct takes effect on 1 January 2025 and supersedes all previous versions.

Issued by:
Ethics & Oversight Committee

The Neutrals Organization
www.theneutrals.org