​For QRCS Volunteers

1. About Qatar Red Crescent Society

   Established in 1978, Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) is a humanitarian volunteering organization based in Doha, Qatar. It operates globally as a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, a network of National Societies in 191 countries. QRCS is a humanitarian provider in the fields of disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and recovery; health care; social development; and humanitarian advocacy. In doing its work, QRCS hires a big network of trained volunteers.

   QRCS is also a member of several GCC, Arab, and Islamic organizations, such as the Islamic Committee of International Crescent and the Arab Red Crescent and Red Cross Organization (ARCO).

2. Purpose of Document

   The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to identify the standards and parameters of decent conduct among QRCS associates. This document is not related to the detailed everyday workflow at QRCS; it sets the ethical and behavioral framework for being part of the organization.

   It helps to achieve the following:

   • Guidance for associates towards due basic behaviors in a context of consistency and accountability.
   • Equity and consistency in dealing with a multicultural work environment, as well as avoidance of confused decisions.
   • A behavioral model to follow, for facilitated procedures, decision taking, and resolution of work disputes.
   • Good working relationships among associates that translate into a sound and firm work environment.

3. Effective Code of Conduct

   • The code falls under the rights and responsibilities of QRCS associates. It is an underlying part of all employment contracts and has to be attached to the instructions that QRCS associates have to read and understand. For new associates, it has to be attached to their training and orientation materials.
   • The code applies to all QRCS associates, who are deemed responsible for compliance.
   • Any breach of the Code of Conduct shall be duly subject to disciplinary measures or employee regulations applicable at QRCS. QRCS retains the right to claim back from the associate all the expenses incurred by the former as a result of any breach of the Code of Conduct (including reparation for the harm caused by such breach as well as related costs).
   • Information protection obligations remain enforceable even following end of service at QRCS.
   • QRCS seeks to ensure that all the organizations and individuals that it works with embrace values that are in harmony with its own values.
   • Any disciplinary measure due to a breach of the code does not rule out responsibility or possible consequent administrative, civil, or plenary procedures.
   • If an associate suspects a breach of the code, it has to be reported to the concerned administrative unit. Where inappropriate, the Human Resources and Administrative Services has to be reported.

4. Abidance by Identity

   • Respect for QRCS, its humanitarian mission, the vulnerable supported, partners, and associates.
   • Understanding of the fundamental principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement (humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality).
   • Understanding of QRCS values (Vulnerable people come first, Constant dedication to our cause, Valued partnerships, Integrity is an asset, and Excellence is our capital).
   • Respect for QRCS emblem and nonuse of it for publicity, personal reasons, or social media.
   • Avoidance of any activity that involves or results in any conflict between job responsibilities and personal interest.
   • Making media statements only with a prior permission from those in charge at QRCS.

5. Ethical Values

   • Truthfulness – honesty – integrity – proficiency – dedication – proper treatment – gender sensitivity – public image
   • Decent clothing and good looking that gives a positive impression about QRCS associates.
   • Wearing QRCS vest where work requires and solely for the purpose of work.
   • Making QRCS employee ID visible while at work.
   • Not having alcohol or coming to work while drunk, and never smoking at workstations.

6. Workplace Relationships

   • Relations with beneficiaries & affected persons:

     • Sticking to QRCS work system and duties.
     • Diligent and timely performance of duties and coordination with concerned entities to identify requirements.
     • Positive representation of QRCS.
     • Politeness with others.
     • Respect of privacy of clients, avoidance of personal questions unless work requires otherwise, and abstention from things that cause defamation.
     • Consideration of cultural differences of the communities and groups that QRCS deal with.
     • Non-exploitation of the needs of others.

   • Relations with supervisors:

     • Compliance with instructions in a manner that does not violate QRCS regulations or the provisions of the law.
     • Polite and courteous talk, even in case of disagreement.
     • Following the reporting system in administrative correspondences, unless otherwise required or agreed.
     • Refrainment from whatever can be deemed defiant, insulting, or defamatory towards supervisors.
     • Not deceiving or misleading supervisors or withholding information in a manner that negatively affects work or for the purpose of improving job status.
     • Reporting violations or breaches that cause harm to work.

   • Relations with colleagues:

     • Good manners in dealing with all colleagues, respecting gender, age, position, and cultural differences.
     • Promoting teamwork, cooperation with colleagues, sharing opinion professionally and objectively, and offering help to solve work-related problems.
     • Responsiveness and initiative in conducting work and providing correct information when required by the competent persons for the best interest of work.
     • Promoting positive attitude among colleagues to help improve performance and work environment.