Ethical Code

MIIC (the Mestenhauser Institute for International Collaboration) is committed to promoting intercultural competences, fostering international collaboration, and enhancing the quality of education in higher education and universities worldwide. Our work in international education is strongly guided by values that we associate with the contribution of Josef A. Mestenhauser to the field of international education – collaboration, understanding, equity and inclusion.

These values are underpinned by a broader ethical code that governs the overall conduct of our organisation, employees, collaborators, and volunteers. This code reflects our overall  values of integrity, inclusivity, professionalism, and accountability.

I. Integrity and Respect

1. Respect for Diversity: MIIC values and respects the diversity of individuals and cultures. We embrace all perspectives and backgrounds, treating everyone with dignity and respect.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: We promote cultural sensitivity and strive to avoid any form of discrimination or bias based on race, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

3. Honesty and Transparency: MIIC is committed to honesty and transparency in all its dealings. We provide accurate and truthful information to our stakeholders and partners.

4. Confidentiality: We protect the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information, especially when dealing with personal data and collaborations.

5. Anti-Corruption Commitment: MIIC maintains a strict anti-corruption stance and does not tolerate any form of corrupt practices. We uphold integrity, transparency, and accountability in all our financial transactions and relationships.

II. Professionalism and Competence

6. Excellence in Service: MIIC maintains high standards of professionalism and competence. We continually strive for excellence in all aspects of our work.

7. Professional Development: Employees, collaborators, and volunteers are encouraged to pursue professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of intercultural competences and international collaboration.

8. Conflict of Interest: MIIC members avoid conflicts of interest that could compromise the integrity of our organisation or the services we provide.

III. Accountability, Responsibility, and Commitment to Sustainable Development

9. Accountability to Stakeholders: MIIC is accountable to its stakeholders, including donors, partners, program beneficiaries, and the institutions, communities and individuals we serve. We report transparently on our activities and finances. We are committed to aligning our work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

10. Environmental Responsibility: We are committed to environmental responsibility and strive to minimise our ecological footprint in all operations and activities.

11. Social Responsibility: MIIC engages in socially responsible practices, contributing positively to the well-being of communities and society as a whole. Our initiatives aim to address inequalities (SDG 10) and promote quality education (SDG 4) while fostering partnerships (SDG 17) to maximise our impact.

12. Safety and Well-being: MIIC ensures the safety and well-being of all individuals involved in our programs and activities. We have procedures in place to address any safety concerns promptly. Our commitment to the SDGs extends to promoting safety and well-being as essential components of sustainable development.

13. Protection of Vulnerable Communities: MIIC recognizes its responsibility to protect vulnerable communities that may be affected by its projects and activities. We are dedicated to ensuring that our initiatives do not harm or exploit vulnerable individuals or communities. We actively seek to include vulnerable populations in our programs and prioritise their well-being and empowerment.

14. Non-Political Involvement and Non-Partisanship: MIIC refrains from engaging in political activities, affiliations, or endorsements. We are non-partisan and do not promote or support any political party or agenda. Our focus remains solely on our mission to promote intercultural competences and international collaboration for the betterment of education.

IV. Collaboration and Partnerships

15. Collaborative Approach: MIIC values collaboration and partnerships with individuals, organisations, and institutions that share our mission and values. We work together to achieve common goals.

16. Inclusivity in Collaboration: We promote inclusivity in all collaborations, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and respected.

V. Compliance and Reporting

17. Ethical Code Compliance: All employees, collaborators, and volunteers are expected to comply with this ethical code. Violations should be reported to the appropriate authorities within MIIC at institute@miic.world.

18. Whistleblower Protection: MIIC has a whistleblower protection policy in place to ensure that individuals can report ethical violations without fear of retaliation.

VI. Continuous Improvement

19. Ethical Code Review: MIIC regularly reviews and updates this ethical code to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in achieving our mission.

Conclusion

MIIC is dedicated to maintaining the highest ethical standards in all aspects of its operations. Our ethical code serves as a guiding framework to ensure that our organisation continues to make a positive impact on intercultural competences, international collaboration, and the quality of education worldwide. We further commit to fighting corruption, refraining from political involvement, remaining non-partisan, and protecting vulnerable communities in all our endeavours..