Conflict, conduct & recusal code
Protects decisions from personal, financial and organizational conflicts.
Disclosure
Directors, officers, reviewers, researchers and committee participants disclose financial interests, family or close relationships, political or organizational roles, gifts, litigation interests and any other circumstance a reasonable person could see as affecting judgment.
Management
The unconflicted decision-maker determines whether disclosure, restricted access, recusal, divestment or withdrawal is required. The affected person leaves deliberation and voting when recused. The minutes record the conflict and safeguard without unnecessary personal detail.
Conduct
Participants act honestly, respectfully and lawfully; protect confidential and personal information; avoid harassment, threats, retaliation and deceptive claims; preserve evidence; and distinguish allegation, opinion and verified fact. Position or donation never excuses misconduct.