Code of conduct

Humanitarian ID is a way to help humanitarian responders find, connect, and collaborate at the time of a humanitarian crisis (protracted or sudden onset). By making this process faster and smoother, the responders have more time to focus on what is needed most: saving lives and alleviating suffering.

The Code of Conduct governs how we, as a community, will use Humanitarian ID. We expect it to be honoured by everyone who uses the application, represents the project officially or informally, or claims affiliation with the project.

We will:

Be considerate

Our information will be accessed and used by other people, and in turn we depend on the details of others. Keeping our own details up-to-date is therefore of great importance to help ensure effective coordination and collaboration during the times of crises.

Be respectful

We will use Humanitarian ID for professional humanitarian matters and will not abuse the access to our colleagues’ information.

Take responsibility

We can all make mistakes. When we do, we take responsibility for them. If someone does use Humanitarian ID inappropriately, we will work with them to right the wrong.

Be collaborative

Ensuring that a humanitarian contact list is always up-to-date has been a major challenge in the past. Now, we each control our own details on the list. Yet, we can work together to help ensure that all contact details are available and updated even for those who are unable to access the system. When missing features or technical shortcomings are discovered, we will report these items constructively to the Humanitarian ID technical team so that we can work together to build an even better solution.


Inappropriate use

Should it be found that an individual or organization is making inappropriate use of Humanitarian ID, we will report such abuse to the Humanitarian ID project team and find a suitable course of action. Examples of inappropriate use would include sending marketing or sales offers, military or targeting purpose, and inclusion of content not directly related to furthering humanitarian aid worldwide. We would first give the offending entity opportunity to correct their action. Should the behaviour continue, the resulting course of action could range from being removed from the system to being reported to local authorities.


This Code is not exhaustive or complete. It is not a rulebook; it serves to distill our common understanding of a collaborative, shared environment and goals. We expect it to be followed in spirit as much as in the letter.