
IASP’s Commitment to a Respectful Environment
IASP is committed to convening events that are welcoming, respectful, inclusive, and collaborative. This Code of Conduct applies to all IASP-sponsored activities—whether held in person or virtually—and to all affiliated events connected with the IASP World Congress on Pain. These expectations apply in all spaces where Congress interactions occur, including session rooms, exhibit halls, social events, online platforms, and private or public venues associated with the meeting.
Expected Behavior
All participants—including attendees, speakers, exhibitors, volunteers, staff, and service providers—are expected to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct.
Treat everyone with respect. Colleagues from every background, discipline, and geographical region should feel safe and valued.
Use good practices for intercultural collaboration. Communicate with awareness of cultural and linguistic diversity.
Be mindful of your surroundings and your fellow participants. Help maintain a safe and supportive environment.
Provide accurate identifying information. Use your true professional identity, affiliation, and, where appropriate, contact information during registration and participation.
Respect ownership and use of presented materials. Follow IASP’s Social Media and Photography Guidelines, including obtaining permission where required before sharing, copying, or distributing content.
Adhere to venue and platform policies. This includes all rules governing meeting facilities, hotels, contracted venues, and online platforms.
Be accountable. If concerns arise, participants and organizers should work together to identify issues and improve policies and practice.
Participants who do not follow expected behavior may be removed from the meeting and may be prohibited from attending future IASP events, depending on the severity of the conduct.
Examples of Unacceptable Behavior
Behaviors inconsistent with a safe, respectful, and professional environment include, but are not limited to:
Harassment, bullying, discrimination, or intimidation in any form, onsite or online.
Physical, verbal, or written abuse directed at any attendee, speaker, volunteer, exhibitor, staff member, service provider, or guest. This includes—without limitation—derogatory comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, religion, national origin, or socioeconomic status; or inappropriate use of sexual or explicit imagery in presentations or public spaces.
Threatening behavior or stalking, whether in person or through digital communication.
Reporting Concerns
IASP encourages prompt reporting of any behavior that violates this Code of Conduct. If you need assistance or would like to report a concern related to the Code of Conduct, please contact a member of the IASP staff or email us directly at congress@iasp-pain.org.
Report a Concern