Purpose

The Ethics Advisory Council is a small, independent group convened to provide reflective input on complex or sensitive ethical matters relating to Ethics Forum International (EFI) and its associated initiatives.

The Council supports ethical discernment by offering considered, non-binding perspectives. It does not hold decision-making authority.

Scope

The Ethics Advisory Council may be engaged in relation to matters arising within:

• Ethics Forum International (EFI)
• Coaching Ethics Forum (CEF)
• Ethical Edge Insights (EEI)
• Journal of Coaching Ethics (JoCE)
• Champions of Courage Awards

The Council’s involvement is limited to providing reflective input on matters of ethical complexity or sensitivity within these initiatives.

Role of the Council

The Council may be engaged where:

• a concern carries ethical complexity or sensitivity
• a matter relates to the conduct or leadership of the Founder
• broader reflection is required to support proportionate and thoughtful response

The Council’s role is consultative, reflective, and non-binding.

In carrying out its role, the Council may:

• request additional information where needed to support its reflection

Relationship to the Founder

Ethics Forum International (EFI) and its associated initiatives are founded and led by Wendy-Ann Smith.

The Founder retains responsibility for decisions relating to EFI and its initiatives.

Where the Council is engaged, its input informs the Founder’s consideration.

In matters relating to the Founder’s own conduct, the Council provides independent initial consideration and determines appropriate next steps.

Independence

The Council operates independently in its reflective role.

It is not involved in the day-to-day operations of Ethics Forum International and its associated initiatives, and does not act as a governing body.

Approach

The Council’s work is guided by:

• ethical reflection rather than procedural judgement
• attention to context and complexity
• proportionality in consideration

The Council does not function as a tribunal and does not adjudicate disputes.

Guiding Principles

This work is guided by the Ethics Forum International (EFI) Principles of Ethicality.

View the Principles of Ethicality

Conflict of Interest

Where a matter relates directly to a Council member’s role or involvement, that individual will step back from consideration of that matter.

This supports appropriate independence and integrity in how each matter is reviewed.

Confidentiality

All matters brought to the Council are handled with discretion and care.

Information is shared only where necessary to support thoughtful and appropriate consideration.

Convening

A Chair coordinates the Council’s work and initial consideration of matters referred through the Ethical Accountability Pathways. The Council is convened on an as-needed basis.

Matters considered by the Council arise through the Ethical Accountability Pathways.

Not all concerns will require Council involvement.