The simple rules of thumb for this forum are to keep on-topic and be respectful of others, but to be clear we thought it useful to spell out a few things that are outside what we'd accept. Our member forum is designed to link IWGIA members and encourage constructive discussions around IWGIA and its work, and as such we want all people to have a good, safe experience when they are here. Anything that supports this aim is encouraged, provided it does not violate the following terms of use:

• Check for open topics. Before posting a new topic, please check to see if there is already a topic open on the subject.

• No advertising or links to advertising or spam is permitted, including fundraising (soliciting members for money for personal projects, organisations, etc.). Sharing of links to helpful and relevant web sites and resources is allowed if they are not used for a promotional purpose.

• Privacy. What is discussed in this private forum, including member and IWGIA comments, cannot be shared outside of the forum without the express consent of the member(s) and/or IWGIA. Sharing content, comments or personal information of others outside of the forum without prior permission is ground for removal of the member(s) from the forum and as a member of IWGIA.

• Any information, including documents and files, shared by the IWGIA Secretariat and Board is confidential and for IWGIA members only. This information cannot be shared or distributed outside of this forum unless expressly approved by IWGIA. Sharing of confidential information to external parties can constitute ground for removal of the member(s) from the forum and as a member of IWGIA and may require legal action.

• Be respectful at all times. It is OK to disagree with the viewpoints of other people but expressing that disagreement should be in a constructive and polite manner that focuses on the issue and never on an individual or group of individuals. Personal attacks, threats, name-calling, insults, defamatory statements, profanity, and aggressive, violent, angry, racist, sexist, sarcastic or joking language is unacceptable. Respect diversity. Be aware of the various cultures, genders, ages, etc. represented in the group and how the posts could come across within the limitations of the written word. Should complaints arise from a member or group of members concerning such alleged abuse, the matter will be investigated and can constitute ground for removal of the member(s) from the forum and as a member of IWGIA.

• No SHOUTING. Using ALL CAPITAL LETTERS in posts is considered yelling, rude and disrespectful, PLUS IT’S DIFFICULT TO READ.

• No irrelevant or off-topic posts. Posts and discussions must be relevant to IWGIA itself and its work.

• No illegal or explicit links, files or language.

• Posts that violate posting rules may be deleted. Users that do not abide by the rules may be subject to having their posts edited or deleted, their member account permanently banned from further access and/or deleted without notice.  

• IWGIA reserves the right to change and update rules and guidelines for posting at any time, please re-read them regularly.