Code of Conduct

All IGDA events, gatherings, and workshops – online and in-person – are safe spaces where you can express yourself without fear of judgment or harassment. All participants and visitors are expected to treat other participants, visitors, staff and the general public with respect. Under the umbrella of respect, we expect all participants to be mindful of their speech and behaviors both in person and online. No form of harassment or assault will be tolerated. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, physical harassment, verbal harassment and any form of sexual assault. Those who violate this policy will be directed to leave the premises and/or reported to the authorities.  Additionally, the IGDA Ethics Committee may take any action it deems appropriate in reaction to harassment, up to and including expulsion from the IGDA and a ban on participation in IGDA events and communities. Information about Ethics Committee work may be found under our Code of Ethics. More information about our IGDA Ethics Violation & Harassment Investigation Process can be found here.

IGDA supports a safe and inclusive environment for all members of our community regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, age, race, ability, ethnicity, veteran status, or religion. This commitment extends beyond our in-person events and into social media, forums, livestreams and any other form of digital spaces affiliated with IGDA.

Misbehavior and violations of code of conduct include, but are not limited to: offensive verbal comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion, technology choices; sexual images in public spaces; deliberate intimidation; stalking; following; harassing photography or recording; sustained disruption of talks or other events; unwelcome physical contact; and unwelcome sexual attention.

People asked to stop any behaviors listed above are expected to comply immediately.

If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, please talk with an organizer or volunteer. If you see someone being treated with disrespect, please let the organizer onsite know. With your help, we can make sure everyone involved in an IGDA event or community is safe, welcomed, included, and treated with respect.

Keep in mind that business culture, social norms, and other engagements may differ across regions. As a global organization, we must be aware of cultural differences in social interactions. Therefore, as IGDA leaders, we empower your Chapter or SIG to adopt additional measures of conduct and expectations that are appropriate for your region.

IGDA Ethics Violation & Harassment Investigation Process

The IGDA is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization whose mission is to support and empower game developers around the world in achieving fulfilling and sustainable careers. To ensure the IGDA and its countless communities are maintained as safe and inclusive spaces, the IGDA has developed an Ethics Violation & Harassment Investigation Process.

This document describes the process by which IGDA will investigate and act on complaints of violations of the Code of Ethics and/or Code of Conduct, with specific attention toward reports of harassment or assault. These complaints may come from Chapters, Special Interest Groups, general members, or non-members; they may reference something that happened at an IGDA event, or actions by an IGDA member, staff, or volunteer at a non-affiliated event or venue. These complaints may also include situations that occur online.

This policy is based on best practices created by organizations around the world, and our primary goal is always to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for all members of our community.

IGDA Ethics Violation & Harassment Investigation Process [2022]