Code of Conduct for CACHA Missions and Projects
At the Canada Africa Community Health Alliance (CACHA), we are committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, and integrity during our missions and field visits to local projects. Our goal is to provide healthcare services and support to communities in Africa while ensuring the well-being and dignity of all individuals involved. As such, we have developed this Code of Conduct to guide the behavior and actions of all participants, including staff, volunteers, and partners.
Respect for Human Dignity:
We recognize and respect the inherent dignity and worth of every individual. We will treat all community members, colleagues, and patients with respect, fairness, and sensitivity, regardless of their background, gender, age, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or socio-economic status.
Professionalism:
We will maintain a high level of professionalism in all our interactions and activities. This includes adhering to relevant professional codes of conduct, acting in a responsible manner, and demonstrating competence, honesty, and accountability.
Informed Consent and Confidentiality:
We will obtain informed consent from individuals participating in our missions and local projects, ensuring they understand the nature, risks, and benefits of the provided services. We will respect and protect the confidentiality of all personal and medical information obtained during our activities, only sharing it when necessary and with appropriate consent.
Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse:
CACHA has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse. We strictly prohibit any form of sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse, or misconduct. This includes but is not limited to sexual relationships with patients, beneficiaries, and the exchange of money, goods, or services for sexual favors.
Reporting Mechanisms:
We encourage all participants to report any concerns or suspicions of sexual exploitation, abuse, or other misconduct promptly. Reports should be made to the designated CACHA contact person or through the established reporting channels. CACHA will treat all reports with confidentiality, conduct thorough investigations, and take appropriate action if misconduct is substantiated.
Duty of Care:
We are committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all individuals involved in CACHA activies. This includes taking measures to prevent and respond to incidents of harassment, abuse, or violence. We will promote awareness, training, and support systems to safeguard the well-being of participants, ensuring their physical and emotional safety.
Cultural Sensitivity and Collaboration:
We will approach our work with cultural humility, recognizing and valuing the diversity of communities we serve. We will collaborate with local partners, healthcare professionals, and community members, respecting their expertise, customs, and traditions. We will seek to build sustainable relationships, empowering local communities and fostering long-term capacity-building initiatives.
Compliance with Laws and Regulations:
We will comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines in both Canada and the host countries. This includes adhering to professional standards of practice, respecting local customs and regulations, and obtaining necessary permits and approvals for our activities.
By participating in CACHA missions and project field visits, all individuals agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Failure to adhere to these principles may result in disciplinary action, including termination of participation and legal consequences, as applicable.
We are committed to continuously reviewing and improving this Code of Conduct to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with evolving best practices and ethical standards.