Code of Conduct

Effective Date: 01/06/2024Last Updated: 12/07/2026

Introduction Youthrise for Development (YFD) is an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization committed to advancing sustainable development, empowering young people, promoting education, protecting the environment, advancing gender equality, supporting humanitarian action, and strengthening resilient communities. As an organization working with communities, young people, vulnerable groups, partners, donors, government institutions, and other stakeholders, YFD recognizes the importance of maintaining the highest standards of ethical behaviour, professionalism, integrity, and accountability. This Code of Conduct establishes the principles, values, and expected behaviours that guide all individuals representing or working with YFD. YFD believes that every person has the right to be treated with dignity, respect, fairness, and compassion. All representatives of YFD are expected to uphold this commitment in all professional and personal interactions connected to the organization. Purpose of the Code of Conduct The purpose of this Code is to:

  • Promote ethical and responsible behaviour among YFD representatives.

  • Establish clear standards of professional conduct.

  • Protect the dignity, safety, and rights of communities and individuals we serve.

  • Prevent misconduct, abuse, exploitation, discrimination, harassment, fraud, and corruption.

  • Strengthen accountability and trust among staff, volunteers, partners, donors, and beneficiaries.

  • Ensure that YFD operates according to national laws, organizational policies, and internationally recognized humanitarian and development principles.

  • Scope of Application This Code of Conduct applies to all individuals representing or working with YFD, including:

  • Board members;

  • Senior management;

  • Employees;

  • Volunteers;

  • Interns;

  • Consultants;

  • Contractors;

  • Project staff;

  • Community facilitators;

  • Partner organizations;

  • Representatives acting on behalf of YFD. All individuals covered by this Code are required to understand, respect, and comply with its provisions. YFD Core Values and Principles All YFD representatives shall uphold the following values:

  • Integrity

  • We act honestly, transparently, and ethically in all decisions and actions. We do not engage in fraud, corruption, bribery, deception, or any behaviour that compromises organizational integrity. Respect for Human Dignity We recognize the value and dignity of every individual regardless of age, gender, disability, ethnicity, social status, religion, political opinion, or background.

Accountability We take responsibility for our actions, decisions, and use of organizational resources. We are accountable to communities, beneficiaries, partners, donors, government authorities, and each other. Professionalism We perform our duties with competence, commitment, fairness, and respect. Inclusion and Equality We promote equal opportunities and reject all forms of discrimination, exclusion, harassment, and abuse. Service to Communities We prioritize the needs, rights, safety, and wellbeing of the communities we serve. Expected Standards of Behaviour All YFD representatives are expected to:

  • Treat everyone with respect, courtesy, and fairness.

  • Communicate honestly and professionally.

  • Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

  • Respect local cultures while upholding human rights principles.

  • Use organizational resources responsibly.

  • Follow YFD policies, procedures, and applicable laws.

  • Report suspected misconduct or violations.

  • Avoid behaviours that could damage the reputation of YFD.

  • Respect and Non-Discrimination

  • YFD is committed to creating an environment free from discrimination. No individual representing YFD shall discriminate against another person based on:

  • Gender;

  • Age;

  • Disability;

  • Ethnic background;

  • Nationality;

  • Religion;

  • Social status;

  • Political opinion;

  • Economic background;

  • Any other protected characteristic recognized under applicable law. All people shall have equal access to opportunities, services, and respectful treatment. Prevention of Harassment, Exploitation, and Abuse YFD has zero tolerance for:

  • Sexual harassment;

  • Sexual exploitation;

  • Sexual abuse;

  • Physical abuse;

  • Psychological abuse;

  • Bullying;

  • Intimidation;

  • Exploitation of vulnerable persons;

  • Any behaviour that causes harm or violates human dignity. YFD representatives must never use their position of authority, influence, or access to communities for personal advantage. Safeguarding Responsibilities Because YFD works with children, young people, and vulnerable communities, all representatives have a responsibility to protect individuals from harm. YFD representatives must:

  • Act in the best interests of children and vulnerable persons.

  • Avoid inappropriate relationships with beneficiaries.

  • Never engage in sexual activity with children.

  • Never exploit beneficiaries for personal, financial, or other benefits.

  • Report safeguarding concerns immediately.

  • Follow YFD safeguarding procedures.

  • Professional Relationships with Communities

  • YFD representatives shall:

  • Respect community members and their decisions.

  • Avoid creating dependency or unrealistic expectations.

  • Ensure fair and transparent selection of beneficiaries.

  • Avoid favouritism or discrimination.

  • Listen to community feedback and concerns.

  • Promote participation and ownership.

  • Confidentiality and Information Protection

  • YFD representatives may have access to confidential information relating to:

  • Beneficiaries;

  • Staff members;

  • Donors;

  • Partners;

  • Projects;

  • Organizational operations.

  • Such information must:

  • Only be accessed for legitimate work purposes.

  • Not be shared without authorization.

  • Be stored securely.

  • Be handled according to YFD’s Data Protection Policy.

  • Conflict of Interest YFD representatives must avoid situations where personal interests interfere with professional responsibilities. Individuals must disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest, including:

  • Personal financial interests;

  • Family relationships affecting decisions;

  • Personal benefits from organizational activities;

  • Relationships with suppliers or partners. Conflicts shall be managed transparently according to YFD’s Conflict of Interest Policy. Anti-Fraud and Anti-Corruption Commitment YFD prohibits:

  • Bribery;

  • Theft;

  • Misuse of funds;

  • Financial manipulation;

  • Falsification of records;

  • Improper payments;

  • Abuse of authority. All representatives must protect organizational resources and report suspected fraud or corruption. Responsible Use of Organizational Resources YFD resources, including:

  • Funds;

  • Equipment;

  • Vehicles;

  • Information systems;

  • Materials;

  • Organizational property;

  • Must only be used for authorized organizational purposes.

  • Personal use without permission is prohibited.

  • Political Neutrality

  • YFD respects democratic principles and human rights. Representatives must not use YFD’s name, resources, or platforms to promote personal political interests or partisan activities. YFD remains committed to impartial development work that serves communities regardless of political affiliation. Social Media and Public Communication YFD representatives using social media must:

  • Protect confidential information.

  • Avoid statements that damage the organization’s reputation.

  • Respect beneficiaries’ privacy.

  • Obtain authorization before publishing official organizational information.

  • Represent YFD responsibly.

  • Reporting Violations Anyone who observes or suspects misconduct is encouraged to report concerns through appropriate channels. Reports may include:

  • Fraud;

  • Corruption;

  • Abuse;

  • Safeguarding concerns;

  • Discrimination;

  • Harassment;

  • Misuse of resources;

  • Ethical violations. YFD prohibits retaliation against individuals who report concerns in good faith. Consequences of Violations Failure to comply with this Code may result in:

  • Counselling or corrective action;

  • Additional training;

  • Suspension;

  • Termination of employment or engagement;

  • Removal from volunteer activities;

  • Contract termination;

  • Referral to relevant authorities where required by law.

  • Commitment Statement

  • By working with Youthrise for Development, all representatives commit to:

  • Upholding integrity and professionalism;

  • Respecting human dignity;

  • Protecting vulnerable individuals;

  • Promoting equality and inclusion;

  • Safeguarding organizational resources;

  • Acting responsibly and ethically. This Code of Conduct represents YFD’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and responsible development practice. Contact Information For questions, concerns, or reports relating to this Code of Conduct, please contact:

  • Youthrise for Development (YFD)

  • Head Office: Buea, South-West Region, Cameroon

  • Telephone: +237 674 854 112

  • Email: info@youthrisefordevelopment.org

  • Website: www.youthrisefordevelopment.org

  • Approved by:

  • Board of Directors

  • Youthrise for Development (YFD)

  • Date: 01/06/2024