Approach and code of ethics

Those who work on behalf of RFSU also represent the organisation’s values, in accordance with RFSU’s vision statement and the brand. Those who work with partner organisations for RFSU must take different circumstances into consideration than when working in Sweden. In many ways partners represent RFSU and Swedish values even during free time. Fundamentally, during international assignments international agreements must be followed. Swedish law should be the guideline for this undertaking. Those who work for RFSU must also be aware of international laws and rules that can affect working methods. Projects and methods should be in accordance with international conventions and laws.

Those on assignment must agree to and accept RFSU’s rules and policies pertaining to assignments outside of Sweden. A person’s failure to follow these rules and policies can result in contract breach and they will be subject to relevant consequences. Moreover, if a person fails to follow these rules and has committed a crime against Swedish law they can be tried in Sweden.

Examples of Swedish legislation that concerns work outside of the country are laws regarding such matters as:

• Discrimination. Those who work for RFSU shall not discriminate against an individual or group, regardless of gender, age, ethnic background, religion, sexual preference, political views or disabilities.
• Corruption. One shall not take part in corruption through the giving or taking of bribes, either in form of money or other benefits. One should even maintain a clear distance from incongruent activities such as the misuse of power, bribes, and corruption when observed among others. See RFSU’s anti-corruption policy.
• The Purchase of Sex. The purchase of sex is not permitted. The word purchase refers not only to payment in cash, but also private exchanges such as the payment of bills, school fees, etc. in exchange for sexual favours.
• Sexual Harassment. Sexual harassment is incongruent behaviour and includes unwelcome advances based on gender or of a sexual nature that are offensive.

Additional Policies Relevant to Assignments Outside of Sweden:

• Dependence. During an assignment RFSU representatives may find themselves in a situation where people can become dependent on them. One shall not take advantage of this position for personal benefit. In addition, this position may not be used to provide others with advantages that they otherwise would not have. A representative’s relations with others should never be in a position to be perceived in a way that could be interpreted as though they have demanded or expected services or benefits.
• Sexual Relations. Sexual relationships with those persons that are in some way dependent on a representative are unsuitable and should be avoided.
• Alcohol. Consumption of alcohol shall not occur in a way that can cause work or cooperation efforts to be affected negatively.