Members' Code of Conduct

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Green Party of Canada
Members’ Code of Conduct

adopted December 19, 2008

This Code of Conduct sets out guiding principles and specific practices that establish the framework for ethical conduct expected of all members of the Green Party of Canada (GPC).  This Code is founded on a deep respect for the democratic process and a recognition of the enduring need for respectful political discussion and debate in Canada. 

All complaints concerning a breach of this Code shall be directed to the GPC’s Federal Council. 

In my actions and public communications, I shall demonstrate the values underlying the following principles of the GPC:

  1. Ecological Wisdom – members of the GPC will act openly and respectfully to nurture healthy ecosystems, foster biodiversity and apply the precautionary principle to prevent environmental degradation.
  2. Social Justice – all people have fundamental rights and should be given adequate opportunity to express their political opinions.
  3. Participatory Democracy – all Canadians are encouraged to participate in the development of the party and governance of the country, where transparency and accountability ensure meaningful participation.
  4. Non-violence – disagreements are effectively resolved through a patient striving for reconciliation and restoration. 
  5. Sustainability – a sustainable political movement is built upon respectful and professional communication as well as clear procedural guidelines.
  6. Respect for Diversity – diverse ideas and opinions are essential to ensuring the growth of progressive politics in Canada. 

I shall conduct myself in a manner which will tend to maintain and strengthen the public’s trust and confidence in the integrity of the GPC and never undertake an action which would bring the GPC, or its members generally, into disrepute;

I shall act with integrity and professionalism and submit myself to the higher level of scrutiny appropriate to my position as a member of the GPC;

I shall not commit acts such as slander or mischief that could result in civil or criminal action against myself or the GPC;

I shall conduct myself in a professional manner during political debate, respect legitimate democratic interests of all, and focus upon criticizing policies rather than persons;

I shall not intentionally cause harm to any person by engaging in physical, mental, or social abuse;

I shall not use insulting, harassing, or otherwise offensive language or behaviour;

I shall not intentionally misrepresent the stated purposes, values, or policies of the GPC;

I shall cooperate with the authorized structures and procedures of the party and respond in a timely manner when contacted by officers of the GPC;

I shall report any breaches of this Code to the appropriate body within the GPC in a prompt and diligent manner;

I shall not make false, frivolous or vexatious complaints regarding fellow members of the GPC;

I shall refrain from holding a membership in any other federal political party while I am a member of the GPC;

I understand that any breach of this agreement may result in withdrawal of my endorsement or appointment by the party or expulsion from the party;

I shall submit myself to the disciplinary procedures outlined in the Bylaws of the Ombuds and Appeals Committee or its successor and shall comply with any and all sanctions imposed by this Committee.

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