European Academy of Medical Sciences Code of Conduct [Adopted November 19, 2023] The European Academy of Medical Sciences (EAM) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of ethical behavior, integrity, and professionalism in all its activities. As a global platform for the exchange of ideas among leading medical experts, the Academy plays a critical role in advancing health sciences and fostering collaboration across disciplines and borders. This Code of Conduct outlines the ethical principles and professional standards expected of all members, participants, and affiliates of the EAM, ensuring that the Academy’s mission is upheld with the utmost integrity and academic rigor. Code of Conduct for EAM Members Integrity and Ethical Behavior Members of EAM are expected to uphold the highest standards of integrity in all of their professional and academic activities. This includes: Honesty and Transparency All members must be truthful and transparent in their research, collaborations, and communications. Plagiarism, falsification of data, or misrepresentation of qualifications or research results are strictly prohibited. Accountability Members are personally accountable for their work, decisions, and actions. All research and academic contributions should be conducted responsibly and ethically, following the principles of scientific rigor and accuracy. Professionalism In all interactions, whether with fellow members, collaborators, or the public, members must exhibit professionalism, respect, and fairness. Commitment to Academic Excellence As part of EAM, members are expected to contribute to the advancement of medical science and global health through excellence in their work. This commitment includes: High Standards in Research: Members must pursue research that is rigorous, innovative, and aligned with the highest ethical standards. All research should aim to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of medical knowledge and public health. Collaboration: Members are encouraged to engage in collaborative efforts, sharing knowledge, expertise, and resources to further scientific discovery. Collaboration should be conducted in a spirit of mutual respect and shared purpose, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary and international partnerships. Peer Review and Constructive Criticism: Members should participate in peer review processes with integrity, providing constructive feedback that is honest, respectful, and based on scientific merit. Confidentiality Members may have access to confidential information through their involvement in EAM activities, collaborations, or deliberations. To protect the integrity of the Academy and its research, members are required to: Maintain Confidentiality: Any confidential information, including unpublished research findings, proprietary data, and internal discussions, must not be disclosed or shared without explicit authorization. Respect Privacy: Members should respect the privacy of other members and collaborators, ensuring that personal or sensitive information is protected. Conflict of Interest Members of EAM must avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise the objectivity or credibility of their work. If a potential conflict arises, members are expected to: Disclose Conflicts: Any personal, financial, or professional interests that could influence decision-making or research outcomes must be disclosed to EAM’s leadership. Recuse from Decisions: In cases where a conflict of interest is identified, members may need to recuse themselves from relevant discussions, decisions, or projects to maintain fairness and objectivity. Respect for Diversity and Inclusion EAM is committed to creating an inclusive environment that values diversity of thought, experience, and background. Members are expected to: Promote Inclusivity: Foster an environment that respects and includes individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. Discrimination, harassment, or exclusionary behavior based on race, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or other personal characteristics is not tolerated. Support Underrepresented Groups: Encourage and support the participation of underrepresented groups in EAM activities, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are actively included in discussions and collaborations. Respect Cultural Differences: Engage with colleagues, collaborators, and the broader community in a manner that respects cultural differences and promotes open, constructive dialogue. Adherence to Legal and Ethical Standards All members of EAM are expected to comply with the legal and ethical standards governing their research and professional activities. This includes: Compliance with Laws: Members must adhere to relevant local, national, and international laws in their research and professional activities. This includes laws related to intellectual property, data protection, and the ethical treatment of human and animal subjects. Ethical Research Practices: Members must ensure that all research is conducted in accordance with the highest ethical standards, including obtaining proper approvals, ensuring informed consent, and safeguarding the rights and welfare of research participants. Professional Conduct in Public and Online Engagement EAM members are often seen as public representatives of the Academy, and their conduct in public forums and online spaces reflects on the Academy as a whole. Members must: Uphold Professionalism: Maintain professionalism in all public and online engagements, including presentations, interviews, and social media interactions. Avoid Misrepresentation: When speaking publicly or engaging in online platforms, members must clearly distinguish between their personal views and the official positions of EAM, avoiding any misrepresentation of the Academy’s positions. Responsibility to Foster a Collaborative Environment The Academy thrives on collaboration and intellectual exchange, and members are expected to: Encourage Open Dialogue: Promote an atmosphere of open and constructive dialogue within EAM’s academic and professional settings. Members should be open to diverse viewpoints and new ideas, facilitating productive discussions that contribute to scientific advancement. Mentor and Support Peers: Experienced members should take an active role in mentoring and supporting early-career researchers and peers, providing guidance and encouragement to foster their professional development. Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions EAM is committed to enforcing this Code of Conduct to ensure the highest standards of behavior and integrity. Violations of this code will be taken seriously and investigated accordingly. Consequences for breaches may include: Disciplinary Actions: Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, disciplinary actions may range from a formal warning to suspension or termination of membership. Reporting Mechanism: Alleged violations should be reported to the Fellowship Affairs Committee or the appropriate EAM body for investigation and resolution. Members involved in the investigation will be afforded due process and an impartial review of the matter. Alleged violations of the EAM Code of Conduct are considered under the Conduct Review Process. Conduct Review Outcomes The European Academy of Medical Sciences (EAM) is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of ethical conduct among its members. Any breach of the Code of Conduct will be subject to a formal review process by the relevant committees, including the Fellowship Affairs Committee. The review process is thorough, impartial, and ensures fairness to all parties involved. Following the investigation, potential outcomes may include: Formal Warning: Issued for minor violations, this serves as a notice to correct behavior. Probation: Temporary suspension of certain privileges within the Academy, including participation in specific committees or research activities. Suspension: Temporary removal from the Academy, depending on the severity of the misconduct. Termination of Membership: For serious breaches of the Code of Conduct, permanent revocation of membership and removal from the Academy’s Fellowship roster may occur. The final decision is binding, with all outcomes designed to maintain the integrity, reputation, and ethical standards of the Academy. Appeals may be submitted for reconsideration under extraordinary circumstances.
