The World Congress on Snakes (WCS) connects researchers, clinicians, conservationists and other stakeholders with a shared passion for the discovery, study and stewardship of snake biodiversity. Our congresses are designed as high calibre forums for scientific exchange—places where delegates can present new findings, forge collaborations, and learn, teach and network across borders. To sustain that mission, WCS is committed to creating and maintaining a professional, respectful, safe and welcoming environment for all participants and volunteers.
This Code of Conduct applies to all WCS participants—including organisers, committee members, speakers, students, guests, exhibitors, service providers and attendees—at all WCS activities, whether in person or online. WCS representatives are expected to behave in a professional, respectful and inclusive manner at all times. Discrimination, bullying, harassment and other inappropriate behaviours are not tolerated at any WCS related event, including social gatherings hosted by partner organisations or held at public or private facilities.
The following conduct is unacceptable at WCS events:
WCS supports open communication of science. Information presented at WCS may be reported and discussed by attendees and journalists in scientific journals, newspapers, blogs, social media or other platforms. However, images or slides may not be reproduced without the presenter's permission unless the material is already publicly available. Presenters who do not wish their content to be broadcast should state this clearly; we ask that attendees respect these wishes.
Complaints must be made in good faith and based on reasonable grounds. Malicious or knowingly false allegations will themselves be treated as violations of this code. Misconduct should be reported promptly to the Conference Organizer or a designated member of the WCS Organising Committee. Complaints about a committee member should be directed to the WCS Secretary. Complaints about the Secretary should be directed to the WCS Organising Committee. Allegations of inappropriate use of WCS funds should be reported to the WCS Treasurer and the Organising Committee.
Reports should be made verbally as soon as practicable and followed by a written statement. Documentation should include the date, time, nature of the misconduct, the accused person's name and any witnesses. Reports will be kept confidential to the extent possible, consistent with a thorough investigation and applicable law. At least two officers will review each complaint. Individuals who, in good faith, report misconduct will not face harassment, retaliation or adverse consequences. It is a violation of this code to retaliate against a complainant.
If there is an immediate threat to personal safety, contact venue security or local law enforcement. If unclear how to do so, contact the Conference Organizer. Also notify the WCS Organising Committee when it is safe. The committee will investigate and may issue warnings, revoke conference participation without refund, and/or ban individuals from future WCS events. Offensive or disruptive presentations may be interrupted.
Violations reported after the fact will be investigated by the WCS Organising Committee. The investigation will be conducted impartially and confidentially. Depending on the severity of the incident, actions may include written or verbal warnings, removal from the current or future events, and other disciplinary measures. Allegations of financial misconduct will be investigated by the WCS Treasurer with oversight from the Organising Committee.
Complaints and queries regarding this Code of Conduct may be directed to:
WCS Organising Committee
E-mail: info@wdc2026snakes.org
The WCS Organising Committee is committed to upholding these standards so that all delegates can focus on what matters: advancing the science and conservation of snakes through respectful, inclusive collaboration.