For the first time, relocation industry associations have joined forces to make their conferences safer and more enjoyable for all. FIDI Sustainability and Strategic Communications Manager Magali Horbert explains the purpose behind this collaboration
If you have been to one of the many conferences in our industry, you know the feeling. The buzz of reconnecting with old friends, the thrill of new conversations, the late nights that always go on longer than planned. Our industry conferences are something special.
However, no large professional gathering is entirely immune to the kind of behaviour that can make others feel uncomfortable, unwelcome, or worse. But when it does occur (even if rarely, thankfully) the impact on those affected can be serious and lasting.
‘Conferences are where relationships in this industry are built,’ says Julia O’Connor, Vice President of Membership & Communications at IAM. ‘It matters enormously that those relationships start in an environment where everyone feels respected.’
As conference organisers, we have always known we have a responsibility to make our events safe and enjoyable for everyone. We are now taking that responsibility further – and we are not doing it alone.
A united front
Five of the industry’s leading associations – FIDI, IAM, EuRA, FEDEMAC and OMNI – have come together to tackle bad behaviour. A common charter is currently being finalised, meaning that misconduct at one association’s event could result in sanctions across all of them. The associations will align their individual codes of conduct and rules, and share relevant information between them, in full compliance with GDPR and applicable data privacy regulations.
To ensure the initiative is built on solid foundations, the associations have sought expert guidance and training from the Safer Business Network UK, a leading organisation that advises businesses on creating safer environments. ‘This is a conversation our industry should have had sooner,’ says Jesse van Sas, FIDI Secretary General. ‘By working together, we send a clear message: there is no place for harassment or abuse at our events, and there are real consequences for those who cross that line.’
EuRA’s Operations Director, Briony Horwood, echoes this: ‘What makes this initiative meaningful is that it goes beyond words on paper. It is about creating a culture where people feel safe, supported, and heard – at every event.’
What FIDI is doing in Osaka
When the FIDI Conference opens in Osaka on 10 May, attendees will notice that things feel a little different.
FIDI’s Conference code of conduct will be communicated clearly before and throughout the event, so there is no ambiguity about the standards expected. All FIDI staff at the conference will receive dedicated training on how to respond appropriately and compassionately if an incident is reported to them.
Taking inspiration from the White Ribbon Campaign – an international movement that originated in Canada in which people wear a white ribbon as a pledge to never condone or stay silent about violence and harassment – FIDI will also be putting in place a visible support network on the ground. A group of FIDI members who feel strongly about this issue and are willing to step in when they witness something that is not right will be identifiable by the white ribbons they wear.
‘We want everyone at the FIDI Conference to have a great time,’ says Lydia Cope, Customer Relations Manager at FIDI. ‘But having a great time must mean everyone, not just most people. The white ribbon network is about making sure that if something feels wrong, you are never on your own.’
Our part to play
If you witness or experience inappropriate behaviour at a FIDI event, please report it. You can speak to any member of FIDI staff or approach someone wearing a white ribbon. Every report will be handled with care and full discretion. Our conferences are one of the great privileges of working in this industry. Let’s make sure they feel that way for everyone.