GPC Members’ Code of Conduct
Version 1.2
This Code of Conduct sets out guiding principles and specific practices that establish the
framework for ethical conduct expected of all members of the Green Party of Canada
(GPC). It is founded on a deep respect for the democratic process and recognition of the
enduring need for respectful political discussion and debate in Canada.
This code requires a commitment by all GPC Members :
 Global Green values: To live and respect the Global Green values of Ecological
Wisdom, Social Justice, Participatory Democracy, Non-violence, Sustainability and
Respect for Diversity.
 Our GPC ethical values: As members of our party to abide by the values of
honesty, respect, commitment, lawfulness and responsibility.
 Ethical Conduct: To reflect the highest ethical standards in conduct and to the
best of one’s ability, maintain and strengthen the trust and confidence of the public in
the integrity of the Green Party of Canada, and to the best of one’s ability, uphold the
values, constitution, bylaws, policies, and conflict of interest guidelines of the GPC.

Accountability: To be willing to be held accountable to the ethical and
behavioural expectations within this code, and to understand that adherence
to this code represents a condition of membership for GPC members and
serious violations or non-compliance regarding this code could result in
administrative or disciplinary measures up to and including termination of
membership.

Certification: To have read, understand and abide by the ethical and legal
obligations of this Code of Conduct
As a member of the Green Party of Canada, I agree to the following ethical behavioural
obligations and expectations.
HONESTY
In relation to myself:
 I shall act with integrity and professionalism and submit myself to the higher level
of scrutiny appropriate as a member of the GPC;
 I shall not commit acts such as slander or mischief that could result in civil or
criminal action against myself or the GPC;
 I shall not intentionally misrepresent the stated purposes, values, or policies of
the GPC;
RESPECT
In relation to each other:

I will respect the dignity of all persons.
 I shall not intentionally cause harm to any person by engaging in physical,
mental, or social abuse or harassment;

I shall not use insulting, harassing, or otherwise offensive language or behavior;

I shall not make false, frivolous or vexatious complaints regarding others.

I resolve to settle disagreements through reconciliation and restoration.
 I will not condone wrongdoing and shall responsibly report any breaches of this
Code to the appropriate body within the GPC in a prompt and diligent manner.
Complaints concerning a breach of this Code may be directed to the GPC Federal
Council or the GPC ethics committee.
COMMITMENT
In relation to the party:
 I shall conduct myself in a manner which will tend to maintain and strengthen the
public’s trust and confidence in the integrity of the GPC and never undertake an
action which would bring the GPC, or its members, into disrepute;
 I will participate in the development of the party and governance of the country to
the best of my ability and time available;
 I shall cooperate with the authorized structures and procedures of the party and
respond in a timely manner when contacted by officers of the GPC;
 I agree to abide by the disciplinary procedures outlined in the Bylaws of the
Ombuds and Appeals Committee and shall comply with any and all sanctions
imposed by this Committee;
 I understand that any breach of this code may result in withdrawal of my
endorsement or appointment by the party or expulsion from the party.
LAWFULNESS AND RESPONSIBILITY
In relation to our voters, donors, suppliers and contractors, other political parties and all
Canadians:
 I will treat all stakeholders in a manner that is lawful and fair and avoids conflict
of interest;
 I will contribute to the sustainability of our political movement through respectful
and professional communication;
 I will respect that all people have fundamental rights and should be given
adequate opportunity to express their political opinions;
 I will respect that diverse ideas and opinions are essential to ensuring the growth
of progressive politics in Canada;
 I shall conduct myself in a professional manner during political debate, respect
legitimate democratic interests of all, and focus upon criticizing policies rather than
persons;
 I shall refrain from holding a membership in any other federal political party while
I am a member of the GPC;
 I shall work towards a new politics of courtesy, consensus, cooperation and
collaboration with others in areas where we share common values and beliefs;
 If I am uncertain about any application of this code, I will seek advice and
counsel from other GPC members, my EDA, my regional representative, the federal
Council, the GPC ombudsman or the ethics committee of the GPC as appropriate.
Version information
Version number
Date
1.0
Jan 15, 2012
1.1
Apr 26, 2012
1.2
Aug 9, 2012
Event
Developed by Ethics Committee to replace
Code adopted in 2008
Approved by Ethics Committee for
presentation to Federal Council
Amended by Ethics Committee for
presentation to Federal Council