6.1 Basic principles

Members commit to the four principles of open government: transparency, citizen engagement, accountability, and technological innovation to promote the previous 3 principles. They act with integrity and ethics. All members have equal voice and rights.

6.2 Transparency and conflict of interest

Mandatory declaration of interests, notification of conflict and abstention from relevant decisions, prohibition of acceptance of gifts or benefits.

6.3 Confidentiality

Closed sessions are governed by the Chatham House Rule. Strict compliance with GDPR. Public statements only by authorised persons, with a clear distinction of personal views from positions of the Forum.

6.4 Ethics Committee

A three-member ethics committee examines violations. Scaling-up of sanctions: oral remark → written reprimand → temporary suspension (1-3 months) → definitive dismissal. Right to be heard by any member before the imposition of a sanction.

6.5 Revision

The Code shall be revised every two years or whenever deemed necessary by the Plenary Assembly by a 2/3 majority.