Code of Conduct

A RESPECTFUL AND INCLUSIVE CONFERENCE

To all participants of the “FACES - Families And Challenges in Evolving Societies
in the D-A-CH region and beyond” Conference

All conference organizers and involved institutions are committed to fostering a professional, inclusive, and intellectually stimulating environment. This conference brings together researchers at different career stages and from a range of backgrounds to engage in constructive dialogue, exchange ideas, and advance knowledge in our shared fields of interest. All participants are expected to uphold the principles of respect, integrity, and collaboration.

Harassment, intimidation, or misuse of power in any form will not be tolerated. Discriminatory behavior based on gender, race, nationality, career stage, institutional affiliation, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic is strictly prohibited. Participants and organizers alike are encouraged to create opportunities for full participation by all attendees, with particular attention to junior scholars, early-career researchers, and underrepresented voices. This includes fostering respectful and constructive discussion during presentations, Q&A sessions, and informal exchanges, and avoiding dismissive, intimidating, or disruptive behavior. Constructive feedback and intellectual critique should focus on ideas and contributions, rather than personal attributes.

Practical expectations for conference sessions and discussions

To ensure a fair and productive exchange for everyone, participants are asked to observe the following guidelines:

• Respect the allocated speaking time, both as a presenter and as an audience member.
• Keep questions short, clear, and to the point.
• Avoid extended comments that resemble additional presentations rather than questions.
• Allow room for multiple participants to speak and be mindful not to dominate the discussion.
• Follow the guidance of the session chair, including requests to shorten or conclude questions and answers, in order to help monitoring time
• Formulate criticism in a constructive, collegial, and respectful manner, focusing on arguments, methods, and evidence.
• Refrain from personal remarks, dismissive language, aggressive questioning, or confrontational tones.
• Be considerate toward presenters who are early in their careers or who may be unfamiliar with the format.
• Be mindful that this is an international conference: speak clearly, avoid unnecessary jargon, and allow for different levels of language proficiency.
• Accept when a discussion needs to be closed for reasons of time management.

Scope of application

This Code of Conduct applies to all conference-related activities, including academic sessions, social events, and informal gatherings associated with the conference.

If a participant experiences or witnesses behavior that contravenes this Code of Conduct, we strongly encourage them to report it to one of the organizing committee members. Retaliation against individuals who report concerns will not be tolerated. All reports will be handled confidentially, and the organizing team will take appropriate action, which may include warnings, removal from the event, or further institutional measures.

By attending the conference, all participants—including organizers and support staff—agree to abide by this Code of Conduct and to contribute to a respectful, inclusive, and enriching conference experience.

The Organizing Committee, 20 February, 2026