1. Purpose
The RegPEX Code of Conduct exists to promote a professional, respectful, and collaborative environment for all members, staff, and participants in the Regional Peering Exchange community. This document sets expectations for behaviour in technical and operational contexts.
2. Scope
This Code applies to:
- Technical and operational communications (email, tickets, chat)
- Mailing list discussions
- In-person and virtual meetings
- Member portal interactions
- Peering negotiations and bilateral discussions
It applies to members, their authorised representatives, RegPEX staff, and other participants in RegPEX activities.
3. Core Principles
3.1 Professionalism
- Conduct yourself in a professional manner at all times
- Communicate clearly, accurately, and constructively
- Honour commitments and respond to requests in a timely manner
3.2 Respect
- Treat all participants with respect and dignity
- Acknowledge diverse perspectives and experience levels
- Avoid personal attacks, demeaning language, or intimidation
3.3 Collaboration
- Work cooperatively to advance the common interest of the peering community
- Share knowledge where appropriate and support the development of others
- Participate constructively in technical and policy discussions
3.4 Transparency
- Provide accurate information in membership and peering matters
- Disclose conflicts of interest where relevant
- Communicate openly about operational issues that may affect others
4. Unacceptable Behaviours
The following behaviours are not permitted:
- Harassment: Offensive, threatening, or intimidating conduct toward any person
- Discrimination: Unfair treatment based on race, nationality, gender, religion, disability, or other protected characteristics
- Doxxing: Publishing private or identifying information without consent
- Threats: Verbal or written threats of harm, retaliation, or professional damage
- Service disruption: Deliberate actions that harm RegPEX infrastructure or member connectivity
- Trade secrets: Improper disclosure of confidential business or technical information
- Spam: Unsolicited commercial or repetitive messages on mailing lists or in official channels
- Intentional harmful actions: Malicious acts that undermine trust, security, or operations
5. Reporting
Report to: conduct@regpex.net
Anonymous reporting is available via the member portal. Reports should include:
- A detailed description of the conduct
- Supporting evidence (emails, logs, screenshots) where available
- Date, time, and context of the incident
Reports are handled confidentially. Reporter identity is protected to the extent permitted by law and the investigation process.
6. Assessment Process
- Initial review: RegPEX acknowledges receipt within 5 business days
- Investigation: Both the reporter and the subject of the report are given opportunity to provide input
- Board decision: The RegPEX board or designated committee evaluates the matter and decides on any sanctions
- Confidentiality: Proceedings remain confidential; outcomes are communicated only to those directly involved
7. Sanctions
| Level | Sanction | Typical Circumstances |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Verbal warning | Minor or first-time infraction |
| 2 | Written warning | Repeated or more serious infraction |
| 3 | Temporary restriction | Temporary limitation of portal or list access |
| 4 | Membership suspension | Significant or repeated violation; suspension pending remediation |
| 5 | Membership termination | Severe violation, persistent non-compliance, or irreparable harm |
The level applied depends on the severity, context, and history of the conduct.
8. Appeal
- Time limit: Written appeal must be submitted within 15 days of the sanction decision
- Process: An independent committee reviews the appeal
- Outcome: The committee’s decision is final
Appeals should be sent to conduct@regpex.net with the subject line “Appeal – Code of Conduct.”
9. Policy Updates
RegPEX may revise this Code of Conduct as needed. Material changes will be communicated to members with reasonable notice.