Ethics at SCI Austria

As part of the international peace movement of Service Civil International, SCI Austria believes that our values must be lived and practiced through our daily work, projects, and relationships. Our ethical approach aims to create safer, respectful, and inclusive spaces for everyone involved in our activities.

Our Approach

SCI firmly supports the non-violent resolution of conflicts. Whenever possible and safe, we encourage conflicts to be addressed through assertive, respectful, and non-violent communication by the people involved. At the same time, we acknowledge that this approach is not always possible or safe, especially for individuals experiencing discrimination or aggression. The safety and well-being of the affected person always come first.

Reporting a Situation of Violence

A situation of discrimination, aggression or any other form or violence can be communicated verbally or in writing to SCI Austria.

Activation of the Protocol

Once a report is received:

• The person who sent the report will be contacted by the awareness team and, if appropriate, invited to conversations.
• As awareness team, we will take steps to assess what has been reported. Depending on the situation, we will evaluate and decide what measures will be taken, considering the affected person’s wish whether to be included in this decision. The measures could go from advice to prevent the act of violence to happen again to the expulsion of the responsible person(s) of the volunteer camp/activity.
• If the affected person is a volunteer, their sending organization will be informed, unless the volunteer explicitly requests otherwise.

Legal Actions

Please note that the Awareness Team provides support and guidance, but cannot take legal action directly. The person affected always has the right to pursue legal action. If this path is chosen, after the activation of the protocol, SCI Austria’s Awareness Team will support the person as much as possible, for example by connecting the person with the appropriate local authorities or legal resources.

Ethical practice at SCI Austria is a shared responsibility, grounded in care, respect, and accountability.

Contact the Awareness Team

If you need to contact us, please send an email to the Awareness Team at awareness@sciaustria.org or via the contact form below.

Please note this form is not collecting general complaints. We are providing a space for people experiencing or witnessing incidents of discrimination, conflict, or integrity issues that could not be addressed by the trainers or responsible persons during the activities.