Code of Ethics Development:

1. Formation of a Code of Ethics Committee:

a. Diverse Representation:
- Form a committee with diverse members representing different levels and departments
within AAEC.
- Include individuals with expertise in ethics, governance, and legal matters.

b. Collaborative Approach:
- Foster a collaborative approach to code development.
- Solicit input from staff, board members, and other stakeholders to ensure a comprehensive
and inclusive document.

2. Identification of Core Values:

a. Define Core Values:
- Clearly define the core values that underpin AAEC's mission and operations.
- Align these values with principles of integrity, transparency, accountability, and respect.

b. Ethical Standards:
- Establish specific ethical standards and guidelines for behavior.
- Address potential ethical dilemmas relevant to AAEC's activities.

3. Legal Compliance:
a. Incorporate Legal Requirements:
- Ensure the code of ethics incorporates legal requirements applicable to the organization.
- Align ethical standards with legal obligations to create a robust framework.

b. Regular Review:
- Schedule regular reviews of the code of ethics to ensure it remains current and aligned with
evolving legal and ethical standards.

Ethical Conduct Training:

1. Mandatory Training Sessions:
a. Implement Mandatory Training:
- Design and implement mandatory training sessions on the organization's code of ethics.
- Include all staff, board members, and volunteers in the training program.

b. Interactive Workshops:
- Conduct interactive workshops to explore real-life ethical scenarios.
- Encourage discussions and critical thinking about ethical decision-making.

2. Training Resources:
a. Develop Training Materials:
- Create comprehensive training materials, including handbooks and online resources.
- Provide easily accessible resources for ongoing reference.

b. Incorporate Case Studies:

- Use real-life case studies to illustrate ethical principles.
- Analyze both positive and negative examples to enhance understanding.

3. Leadership Training:
a. Leadership Ethics Workshops:
- Conduct specialized ethics workshops for leadership and management.
- Emphasize the role of leaders in setting an ethical tone for the organization.

b. Lead by Example:
- Encourage leaders to exemplify ethical behavior in their actions and decisions.
- Reinforce the importance of ethical leadership throughout the organization.

Enforcing a Zero-Tolerance Policy:

1. Clear Communication of Policy:
a. Incorporate in Employee Handbook:
- Clearly articulate the zero-tolerance policy for unethical behavior in the organization's
employee handbook.
- Ensure that all staff members are aware of the policy from the outset.

b. Regular Communication:
- Reinforce the zero-tolerance policy through regular communication channels.
- Emphasize the consequences of unethical behavior and the commitment to maintaining a
high standard of conduct.

2. Establish Whistleblower Mechanism:

a. Implement Whistleblower Policies:
- Establish and communicate whistleblower mechanisms for reporting unethical behavior.
- Ensure confidentiality and protection for those reporting concerns.

b. Anonymous Reporting:
- Allow for anonymous reporting to encourage individuals to come forward without fear of
retaliation.
- Communicate the organization's commitment to investigating all reported concerns.

3. Consistent Enforcement:
a. Prompt Investigation Protocols:
- Develop and communicate protocols for promptly investigating reports of unethical
behavior.
- Ensure a fair and thorough investigative process.

b. Consistent Enforcement:
- Enforce consequences consistently and impartially.
- Demonstrate that unethical behavior will not be tolerated at any level within the
organization.

4. Continuous Improvement:
a. Post-Incident Analysis:
- Conduct post-incident analyses for any reported unethical behavior.
- Identify areas for improvement in policies, training, or organizational culture.

b. Adapt and Enhance:

- Adapt the code of ethics and enforcement mechanisms based on lessons learned.
- Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement in ethical standards.