WCA2026 Event Code of Conduct
At the World Congress of Anaesthesiologists 2026 (WCA2026), we are committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants. WCA2026 welcomes attendees from around the world and celebrates the strength that diversity brings to our global anaesthesia community.
We believe that every delegate, faculty member, sponsor, exhibitor, and staff member has the right to participate in an atmosphere that is free from harassment, discrimination, and intimidation. By attending WCA2026 you agree to uphold the principles set forth in this Code of Conduct.
Our Commitment
WCA2026 is dedicated to fostering a congress environment that recognises the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. We expect all participants to contribute to a respectful and positive experience for everyone.
This Code applies to all congress-related activities, including scientific sessions, networking events, social gatherings, online platforms, communications, and social media interactions before, during, and after the congress.
Expected Behaviour
- Be considerate and respectful in speech and action.
- Foster an inclusive atmosphere by welcoming different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.
- Collaborate constructively and resolve conflicts peacefully.
- Refrain from demeaning, discriminatory, harassing, or exclusionary speech, humour, or behaviour.
- Respect personal boundaries and space, both physically and virtually.
- Do not make or share audio/video recordings or photographs of sessions, posters, or participants without permission.
- Faculty and presenters must ensure all content meets ethical and professional standards, avoiding inappropriate or misleading material.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and fellow participants – report any inappropriate or unsafe behaviour to WCA2026 staff.
Harassment in any form will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Verbal comments or physical actions that reinforce social structures of domination related to gender, gender identity or expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, or religion (or lack thereof).
- Inappropriate, hostile, or sexually offensive language, imagery, or jokes.
- Sustained disruption of sessions or events.
- Intimidation, stalking, or following.
- Recording or photographing individuals or content without permission.
Reporting Misconduct
If you witness or experience behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct, we urge you to report it immediately. Reports can be made in confidence to designated WCA2026 staff or the WCA2026 Ethics Committee. All concerns will be taken seriously and handled promptly and discreetly.
Enforcement
Violations of this Code will be reviewed confidentially by the WCA2026 Ethics Committee. All individuals involved in any investigation are expected to cooperate fully.
Depending on the nature and severity of the violation, WCA2026 may take appropriate action, including:
- A verbal or written warning
- Removal from WCA2026 events without refund or compensation
- Exclusion from future WCA or WFSA events
Help Us Create a Positive Experience
By participating in WCA2026, you agree to uphold the values of respect, professionalism, and inclusion. Together, we can create a congress where everyone feels welcome and empowered to share, learn, and connect.
