Policy
Ethical Code of Conduct
Ethical guidelines are common in most businesses, organisations and government institutions. As a Dharma organisation, we uphold a higher ethical standard than is customary in ordinary organisations. It is a fundamental responsibility to create a supportive, harmonious and safe environment for Dharma practice for those involved in our community through our centre. Therefore, it is of crucial importance that when we observe behaviour we believe to be harmful to an individual or to the community as a whole, we acknowledge and express our concern. For this purpose, we have a separate complaints procedure.
Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, physical or psychological violence, sexual harassment, improper use of community funds or resources for personal use, and sexual relations between teachers and students. It will be clear that misconduct by those in positions of trust can seriously undermine the integrity of the community. Users of the centre may become demoralised and lose their trust in the centre.
The five Buddhist precepts
The five Buddhist precepts form the basis for ethics at Dzogchen Ling. These are:
- Not to kill (any living beings).
- Not to take what is not given.
- Not to engage in offensive (sexual) behaviour.
- Not to lie.
- Not to use intoxicating substances.
Supplementary policies
Relationships
Teachers and staff members must carefully refrain from behaviour that could be interpreted as sexual advances or intimidation.
Right speech
Teachers and staff members must take care never to gossip about or belittle other teachers, staff members and visitors to the centre. They must also avoid coarse or hurtful language. Language that is deliberately hurtful or painful should not be used. When we are hurt or angry, we should wait before responding and reflect on the effect and usefulness of our words. Particularly when visitors to the centre overhear conversations in which other teachers or students/visitors are disparaged, this can have a negative influence on them. Difficult conversations should be held behind closed doors, away from the public areas of the centre.
Anyone who holds the role of teacher or another responsible position within our organisation (on the board or in a committee) is asked to sign the Ethical Code of Conduct as confirmation that they have read and agree with the above.
Internal confidential advisor
Our internal confidential advisor is Khawla Shehadeh (chair of the board). If you have any questions, concerns or reports about behaviour within the centre, you can contact her directly via the contact form.
External confidential advisor
An external confidential advisor is available on behalf of the BUN (Buddhist Union of the Netherlands). The external confidential advisor provides support, offers personal guidance and refers to relevant agencies and care providers.