How We Conduct
Ourselves & Our Work
Our ethical standards are not optional guidelines — they are binding commitments that apply to every person who represents the Battiston Lyonga Foundation, from the Board to the newest volunteer.
Standards That Apply to Everyone
The following principles apply to all Foundation staff, board members, volunteers, consultants, and partner representatives acting on behalf of the Foundation.
Respect & Non-Discrimination
All staff, volunteers, and partners must treat every person with respect, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or socioeconomic status. Discrimination, harassment, or bullying of any kind is grounds for immediate termination.
Conflict of Interest
Staff and board members must disclose any personal, financial, or professional interest that could influence their decisions. Undisclosed conflicts of interest are treated as a serious breach of conduct.
Confidentiality
Information about beneficiaries, donors, and partners is held in strict confidence. Personal data is collected only for legitimate programme purposes and is never shared without consent.
Use of Resources
Foundation resources — financial, physical, and digital — are used exclusively for organisational purposes. Personal use of Foundation assets is prohibited.
Social Media & Public Statements
Staff and volunteers must not make public statements on behalf of the Foundation without authorisation. Personal social media activity must not bring the Foundation into disrepute.
Gifts & Hospitality
Staff may not solicit or accept gifts, payments, or hospitality that could influence — or appear to influence — their professional judgement. Modest tokens of appreciation must be declared.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption & Fraud
The Foundation maintains a strict anti-corruption and anti-fraud stance. Bribery, kickbacks, embezzlement, and fraudulent misrepresentation are prohibited in all circumstances — regardless of local custom or perceived necessity.
Staff are required to report suspected fraud or corruption immediately. Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. All credible reports are investigated and, where warranted, referred to relevant authorities.
The Foundation will not work with partners, suppliers, or contractors who engage in corrupt practices. Due diligence is conducted on all significant partnerships before formalisation.
Our Commitment
- No bribery or facilitation payments
- No misuse of donor funds
- No fraudulent reporting
- Protected whistleblower channels
- Partner due diligence on all contracts
Protecting the People We Serve
Safeguarding is not a compliance exercise — it is a moral obligation. We take every possible step to ensure that our programmes and people never cause harm.
Child Protection
The Foundation operates a zero-tolerance policy on child abuse in all its forms. All staff and volunteers working with children undergo background screening and mandatory child protection training.
Protection from Sexual Exploitation & Abuse (PSEA)
Sexual exploitation, abuse, or harassment of beneficiaries by Foundation representatives is absolutely prohibited. Violations are reported to relevant authorities and result in immediate dismissal.
Safe Reporting
Any person — staff, volunteer, beneficiary, or community member — can report safeguarding concerns confidentially. Reports are investigated promptly and impartially.
Survivor-Centred Response
When safeguarding incidents occur, the safety, dignity, and wishes of the survivor are the primary consideration in all response decisions.
Report a Concern
If you witness or experience conduct that violates these standards, please report it. All reports are treated confidentially and investigated promptly.
Submit a Report