Code of Conduct

Komvos – Networks of Global Hellenism (KOMVOS-NODE) was established with the aim of mobilizing all the forces of Hellenism to strengthen Greece’s geopolitical footprint through the economy, innovation, sustainability, culture, shipping, science, and technology. The operation of Komvos is governed by the principles of Environmental Responsibility, Social Awareness, and Responsible Governance (ESG). This Code of Conduct sets the framework for the behavior of all members, partners, and third parties engaged in the organization’s activities.

This Code of Conduct defines the guidelines for the professional and personal behavior of all those involved in any activity of KOMVOS-NODE, including members of the General Assembly, members of the Board of Directors, members of the Advisory Committee, invited participants, staff, and other associated individuals.

The Code clarifies the expectations of KOMVOS-NODE regarding proper conduct and the professional values that reflect the following core principles:

Respect for and protection of human rights
Responsibility toward the environment and future generations
Promotion of equal opportunities, inclusion, and diversity
Operation with transparency, integrity, and accountability
Contribution to sustainable development and social cohesion

1. The Code

All individuals acting on behalf of KOMVOS-NODE must behave in a manner that maintains and enhances public trust in the integrity of the organization.

Such behavior includes:

Integrity, with a continuous commitment to honesty and accountability
Trustworthiness, through reliable and consistent conduct
Impartiality, with equal treatment of all
Respect, expressed through courtesy and dignity
Stewardship, through responsible use of the organization’s resources
Compliance with applicable laws and organizational regulations
Confidentiality, for the protection of data and organizational information

To implement the Code, Komvos commits to issuing an annual ESG Report outlining achievements and targets, appointing a Compliance Team to monitor adherence, providing guidance and recommendations on ethics and ESG matters, and ensuring the possibility of confidential reporting of violations.

The Code is reviewed every two years and revised as necessary to reflect evolving needs. In cases of ethical dilemmas, individuals should seek guidance from the Board of Directors.

2. Scope and Application

This Code applies to all executives, employees (including full-time, part-time, and contract staff), appointed individuals (paid or unpaid), and persons holding similar roles in any office, department, service, committee, board, or authority of KOMVOS-NODE.

Nothing in this Code prevents individuals from adopting stricter personal conduct policies, provided they comply with applicable laws and any collective agreements. In case of conflict, the stricter policy prevails.

Violation of the Code may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the organization. Principles of due cause will apply as required by law. The Code is effective as of June 1, 2025. Copies and future amendments will be publicly available on the organization’s website.

3. Principles

To ensure proper operation and accountability, Komvos adopts transparency in decision-making and resource management, ensures that Board members act in the public interest rather than for personal gain, maintains procedures to prevent and manage conflicts of interest, promotes performance and impact evaluation based on ESG criteria, and complies with all legal, regulatory, and ethical obligations as a non-profit entity.

Participants must act with integrity and treat others with courtesy, dignity, respect, responsibility, and professionalism.

They must take appropriate measures to identify, disclose, and avoid conflicts of interest. They must not provide undue preferential treatment to any organization or individual, nor make unauthorized commitments on behalf of KOMVOS-NODE.

They must report cases of waste, fraud, abuse, or corruption to the Board of Directors, avoid any conduct that may create the impression of legal or ethical violations, and comply with all laws ensuring equal opportunities.

No form of unlawful discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation is permitted, based on race, color, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, military service, political belief, or any other protected characteristic.

Komvos recognizes its environmental responsibility and commits to minimizing its environmental footprint, promoting sustainable materials and practices, adopting energy efficiency and waste reduction policies, collaborating with sustainability-compliant partners, and raising public awareness on environmental issues.

4. Specific Cases of Unethical Conduct

This section defines specific ethical standards. Violations may lead to disciplinary measures, including removal.

Courtesy: Offensive or disrespectful communication is not permitted.
Disruptive Behavior: Actions that disrupt work or include abusive language are prohibited.
Breach of Confidentiality: Unauthorized disclosure or mishandling of confidential information is prohibited.
Theft: Theft or attempted theft is strictly prohibited.
Misuse of Property: Organizational property must be used only for official purposes.
Improper Conduct by Supervisors: Abuse of authority or misuse of position for personal benefit is prohibited.
Threats or Violence: Any threat or attempt to cause harm must be reported immediately.
Altercations: Physical aggression or unwanted contact is prohibited.
Discrimination: Any unlawful discrimination is prohibited.
Sexual Harassment: Any form of sexual harassment is prohibited.
Substance Abuse: Presence under the influence of substances that impair performance or safety is prohibited.
Health & Safety Violations: Non-compliance with safety rules is prohibited.