Purpose and Scope
The Atlantic Council promotes constructive leadership and engagement in international affairs, convening diverse voices to address the defining challenges of the twenty-first century.
This Event Code of Conduct ensures a safe, respectful, and productive environment for all participants and applies to all Atlantic Council events, both in-person and online.
The Council is committed to both free expression and community safety. These guidelines aim to balance the right to open inquiry and peaceful dissent with the need to maintain a respectful, non-disruptive event environment.
Expected Conduct
All event participants are expected to:
- Exercise consideration and respect in speech and actions.
- Refrain from interrupting speakers or otherwise disrupting programming.
- Engage in discussion and disagreement in a respectful and constructive manner.
- Remain within designated event areas and attend only events for which they are registered or invited.
- Dispose of waste properly and help maintain a clean environment.
- Alert staff to unsafe situations, individuals in distress, or violations of this Code of Conduct.
Harassment-Free Environment
The Atlantic Council prohibits harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in any form. The following behaviors are not tolerated:
- Demeaning, discriminatory, harassing, or threatening speech or conduct
- Sexual language or imagery in any setting associated with events
- Intimidation, stalking, or unwelcome attention of any kind
Free Expression and Peaceful Dissent
The Atlantic Council supports free inquiry and the open exchange of ideas, including the right to express disagreement with speakers or content.
However, peaceful dissent must not disrupt events or compromise safety. Participants may express disagreement only under the following conditions:
- The event and Council operations are not disrupted
- Entrances, egresses and exits are not blocked
- The safety of all participants is not compromised
- Speakers’ ability to speak and attendees’ ability to listen are not impacted
Prohibited Disruptive Behavior
The following actions are not permitted:
- Interrupting or attempting to drown out speakers
- Shouting, heckling, or using amplified sound (e.g., bullhorns, music) in a disruptive manner
- Holding or displaying signs that obstruct views or interfere with the event
- Standing, blocking aisles, or obstructing exits or lines of sight
- Entering restricted or non-designated areas
- Attending private events without invitation
- Using personal devices, including cell phones, laptops, tablets without headphones, or conducting phone or video calls with amplified sound within event spaces
- Trespassing or remaining on premises after being asked to leave
Enforcement and Consequences
The Atlantic Council reserves the right to take appropriate action in response to violations of this Code of Conduct. Such actions may include:
- Verbal warnings
- Removal from the event
- Temporary or permanent bans from future events
Designated staff will follow established protocols to ensure safe, lawful, and consistent handling of disruptions. As a private organization, the Atlantic Council may require individuals who violate these guidelines to leave the premises. Refusal to comply may result in further action consistent with applicable law.
Reporting and Addressing Concerns
If you experience, witness, or overhear a violation of this Code of Conduct:
- Notify the nearest Atlantic Council staff member immediately, or
- Report after the event by emailing: events@atlanticcouncil.org
If you believe you have been unfairly accused of violating this Code of Conduct, you may submit a concise description of your grievance to Atlantic Council staff. The matter will be reviewed and addressed by the appropriate leadership.
Photo and Video Disclaimer
Atlantic Council public events may be recorded, livestreamed, and photographed for public distribution. All public remarks, including audience questions, are considered on the record.
If you prefer not to appear in photos or recordings, please inform a staff member. Depending on the format of the event, your request to not appear in photos or video recordings may not be accommodated.
Last updated on May 7, 2026.