PinkRibbon International is committed to integrity, accountability, safety, dignity, and ethical conduct in all its activities worldwide.
This policy establishes procedures for:
This policy applies to board members, officers, employees, volunteers, consultants, affiliate organizations, partners and contractors, and any individual interacting with PinkRibbon programs or brand.
This policy applies globally, including PinkRibbon affiliates operating under license or agreement.
3.1 Whistleblower: A person who reports suspected misconduct, illegal activity, or unethical behavior in good faith.
3.2 Safeguarding: Measures taken to protect individuals — especially vulnerable persons — from abuse, harm, exploitation, or neglect.
3.3 Misconduct includes (but is not limited to):
PinkRibbon International commits to:
Reports may be submitted:
Reports may be made anonymously. If a person is in immediate danger, they should contact local emergency authorities.
All reports will be treated confidentially to the extent possible. Information will only be shared with those who have a legitimate need to know. Anonymous reports will be accepted and reviewed.
PinkRibbon International will comply with applicable data protection laws (including GDPR where relevant).
Retaliation against any person who reports a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited. Retaliation includes termination or demotion, harassment or intimidation, exclusion from activities, and threats or adverse treatment.
Any retaliation will result in disciplinary action, including possible termination of employment or affiliation.
Upon receiving a report:
Investigations will be impartial, conducted by qualified individuals, documented in writing, and reported to the Board (or Safeguarding & Ethics Committee).
For safeguarding cases involving abuse: immediate risk assessment, protective measures if necessary, mandatory reporting to authorities where required by law, trauma-informed handling, and support resources offered where appropriate.
Reports concerning unauthorized use of the PinkRibbon logo, false claims of affiliation, pinkwashing, counterfeit merchandise, or unauthorized fundraising shall be referred to PinkRibbon Legal Counsel, the Brand & Ethics Committee, and Intellectual Property enforcement counsel (if necessary).
PinkRibbon International reserves the right to pursue cease-and-desist letters, legal action, or public clarification where appropriate.
All licensed affiliates must maintain local reporting mechanisms consistent with this policy, immediately report serious allegations to PinkRibbon headquarters, cooperate fully in investigations, and include safeguarding clauses in partner contracts.
PinkRibbon International will maintain secure records of reports, document actions taken, and retain records in accordance with legal requirements.
Knowingly submitting false or malicious allegations is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. This provision does not apply to reports made in good faith that cannot be substantiated.
The PinkRibbon Board of Directors (or designated Safeguarding & Ethics Committee) shall oversee implementation of this policy, receive periodic reports, ensure independence of investigations involving senior leadership, and review this policy annually.
This policy shall be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to comply with evolving laws and international best practices.