Code of Ethics

This Code of Ethics was approved at the University Forum 31 October 2019 and ratified by the University Council on 5 December 2019. It encapsulates the main ethical values and responsibilities integral to work and studies at the University of Iceland, for the purpose of encouraging and helping staff and students to meet high standards of conduct.

In accordance with Article 1 of the Act on the University of Iceland, the University shall be a scientific research and educational institution that educates its students to complete independent scientific projects and carry out various jobs in Icelandic society. A wide range of regulations shape this role, stipulating legal responsibility for the University's operations and formal disciplinary sanctions if rules are broken. However, these regulations do not go into detail about all the standards that must be upheld in the University community. The official Code of Ethics has parallels in various laws and regulations and ideally should be as consistent with these as possible. The most important role of the official Code of Ethics is to provide more detailed standards for conduct and professional responsibility than the laws and regulations are intended to, since it continues to apply where legal regulations do not. The Code of Ethics is intended to support and expand on other rules governing working procedures and communication at the University of Iceland. Such rules may apply to specific groups (e.g. teaching staff, students, professional associations and student organisations) or within individual schools and units.

This Code of Ethics lays out standards for the conduct of all members of the University community, on and off campus, whether they are academics, other staff members or students at UI. Individual managers work to promote the Code of Ethics and are also responsible for addressing differences of opinion and, as applicable, resolving any disputes that may arise within their unit. In such cases reference should be made to the Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics is presented with reference to the core values of the University of Iceland, which are professionalism, equality and academic freedom, as well as perspectives on teamwork, integrity and sustainability. The goal is to create a work environment based on these values and to support the University community in its efforts to fulfil its primary role of gathering, sharing and preserving knowledge.

Guidance

The following guidelines are intended to show how to use the University of Iceland Code of Ethics in day-to-day work, studies and communication.

1. Consider whether certain conduct meets the standards set in the University's Code of Ethics. You may find further guidance in other, more specific rules at the University, to which the Code of Ethics refers where appropriate.
2. Consider how you would justify a certain decision or conduct if you were talking to a relative, a friend or the media. Would your reputation or the University's reputation be damaged? Would you think it right to advise others to behave in the same way?
3. Do not hesitate to seek advice from your colleagues or parties responsible for specific matters. 

The University of Iceland Ethics Committee can also provide advice on the Code of Ethics. The email address for the Ethics Committee is sidanefnd@hi.is.

This Code of Ethics belongs to all of us. We will respect it and work to advance these standards on the basis of the values of the University of Iceland.

Professionalism and ambition characterise the work of staff and students and are the basis for the position of trust the University has in society.

1.1.

We acquire and share knowledge with an objective and fair attitude and emphasise professional working practices, critical thinking and objective reasoning.

1.2.

We ensure that the information we provide is as accurate and precise as possible. We do not make assertions that exceed the scope of our expertise, rather admitting when our knowledge is limited, acquiring more information or referring inquiries to a qualified party.

1.3.

We familiarise ourselves with and respect the rules of the University regarding the rights, responsibilities and working procedures that are an important part of this Code of Ethics.

Further information on rights, responsibilities and working procedures:

• Act on Public Higher Education Institutions
• The Government Employees Act
• Regulation for the University of Iceland
• University of Iceland Quality Assurance Policy (in Icelandic)
• Guidance for good working practice (in Icelandic)

Equality is a guiding principle in the University's work and the basis of diversity and respect in the University community.

2.1.

We treat others with courtesy, fairness and respect and make sure in our work, studies and collaboration with others that we do not discriminate against people, e.g. on the basis of sex, gender identity, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, disability, nationality, religion or views. We do not provide special treatment on the basis of personal connections or private interests.

2.2.

We take absolutely no part in bullying, harassment or other violence and are on guard against such behaviour.

2.3.

We are aware of the power imbalances that exist between individuals and groups and do not abuse our own power.

2.4.

We endeavour to promote and enhance a culture based on equality, diversity and mutual respect.

Further information on the University of Iceland's Equality Action Plan, regulations and procedures:

• Equality Action Plan 2018–2020
• Response to gender-related and sexual harassment/violence
• Response to bullying and other types of violence at the University of Iceland
• Council for Disability Rights

Academic freedom is the cornerstone of all work at the University, promoting critical thinking, the creative pursuit of knowledge, open-mindedness and forward-thinking.

3.1.

We respect each other's freedom to conduct research and express our academic knowledge and convictions.

3.2.

We recognise each other's freedom to offer objective criticism of policy and working practices at the University

3.3.

We publish our research findings under our own name or under the name of the relevant organisational unit at the University. Nobody may assert the stance of the University of Iceland other than the University Council or the rector, under the authority of the University Council.

3.4.

We always respect rules and standards regarding research ethics and good scientific practice.  We guarantee objectivity in research and the presentation of research results, give careful consideration to our academic independence, avoid any kind of conflict of interest and respect copyright.

Further information on research ethics and good scientific practice:

• University of Iceland Code of Research Ethics (in Icelandic)
• Act on Good Scientific Practice (in Icelandic)
• Data Protection Act

4.1.

We show each other respect in our manner and communications, in speech and in writing, and exchange opinions in an objective manner.

4.2.

We work together with integrity and impartiality and avoid letting personal connections and private interests affect our teamwork.

4.3.

We ensure fairness and recognise each other's contributions to the academic community.

5.1.

We take responsibility for the impact our work has on society, nature and the environment.

5.2.

We uphold sustainability as a guiding principle, avoid waste and seek to minimise the negative impact of work and study on nature and the environment.

5.3.

We endeavour to harness research and pursue technical transfer of knowledge to advance a thriving society, constructive discourse and quality of life for future generations.

5.4.

We seek to promote a free, objective and critical exchange of opinions in society. We participate in public discourse or get involved with social issues or politics in accordance with our own convictions. At the same time, we are mindful of our responsibilities as members of the University community.

Information on sustainability and environmental issues:

• Sustainability and environmental issues at the University of Iceland
• University of Iceland sustainability and environmental policy
• University of Iceland transport policy
• UN Sustainable Development Goals

6.1.

We have ethical responsibilities regarding our work and conduct.

6.2.

We do not tarnish the reputation or credibility of the University with unacceptable conduct, indifference to laws and regulations, or a lack of respect for the sanctity of life and human rights. 

6.3.

We ensure confidentiality and handle personal data with care.

6.4.

We are careful in our use of funds or anything else of value entrusted to us or which we have at our disposal in our capacity as a staff member or student. We do not use them in our own private interests.

6.5.

We avoid taking on projects that are incompatible with our obligations to the University.

6.6.

We disclose shared interests and avoid conflicts of interest. We endeavour to create and maintain a work environment characterised by honesty and ethical conduct and do not hesitate to call attention to anything in the University's operations that is incompatible with the Code of Ethics.

7.1.

If a staff member, student or anyone else becomes aware of conduct that violates the Code of Ethics, this should be brought to the attention of a manager or representative (as appropriate, a student representative or a staff member) or reported to the University of Iceland Ethics Committee.

7.2.

The Ethics Committee accepts reports from parties within and outside the University, but does not start investigations on its own initiative.

7.3.

Staff and students will not be penalised for submitting a reasoned report of a violation of the Code of Ethics or for seeking redress if they believe they have been wrongfully treated.

7.4.

The Ethics Committee evaluates submitted reports and determines whether they first and foremost describe an alleged violation of the Code of Ethics. If the Committee believes that a report first and foremost pertains to rules other than the Code of Ethics, it shall dismiss the case and advise on the appropriate channel, depending on the nature of the matter.

7.5.

The unit in question may consult the Ethics Committee on how to interpret the Code of Ethics.

7.6.

The chair of the Ethics Committee shall regularly report to the rector on the Committee's work.

7.7.

If the Ethics Committee takes on a case for full investigation, it shall deliver a verdict on whether the University's Code of Ethics has been violated.

7.8.

The Ethics Committee works in accordance with operational rules ratified by the University Council, which are designed to guarantee impartiality and objective deliberation.

7.9.

The verdict of the Ethics Committee must be reasoned and conclusive. The Committee shall not recommend disciplinary sanctions for a violation of the Code of Ethics, but shall take a position on the severity of the offence and whether it was a repeat offence.

7.10.

If it is the Ethics Committee's verdict that the conduct in question amounts to a violation of the Code of Ethics, the Committee shall refer the report to the rector who shall take appropriate action in accordance with the law. In the case of a dispute or violation of laws and regulations outside the University's jurisdiction, the Committee shall dismiss the case.