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1. Purpose

This policy establishes procedures for:

• Reporting misconduct, abuse, unethical behavior, or legal violations
• Protecting individuals who report concerns in good faith
• Preventing retaliation
• Ensuring safeguarding of vulnerable individuals
• Protecting the integrity of the PinkRibbon name and logo

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2. Scope

This policy applies to:

• Board members
• Officers
• Employees
• Volunteers
• Consultants
• Affiliate organizations
• Partners and contractors
• Any individual interacting with PinkRibbon International programs or brand

This policy applies globally, including PinkRibbon International affiliates operating under license or agreement.

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3. Definitions

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:

• Sexual harassment, exploitation, or abuse
• Physical or psychological abuse
• Discrimination or retaliation
• Fraud, bribery, or financial misconduct
• Misuse of charitable funds
• Governance violations
• Data protection breaches
• Pinkwashing
• Unauthorized or unlawful use of the PinkRibbon name or logo
• Misrepresentation of PinkRibbon International affiliation

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4. Guiding Principles

PinkRibbon International commits to:

• Zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation
• Protection against retaliation
• Fair, impartial, and timely investigations
• Confidential handling of reports
• Compliance with applicable U.S., New York, and international laws

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5. Reporting Channels

Reports may be submitted:

1. Via PinkRibbon International’s online reporting form
2. By email to the designated Safeguarding Officer
3. Directly to a Board member
4. Through an affiliate’s local reporting mechanism

Reports may be made anonymously.

If a person is in immediate danger, they should contact local emergency authorities.

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6. Confidentiality

• 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.

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7. Protection Against Retaliation

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
• Threats or adverse treatment

Any retaliation will result in disciplinary action, including possible termination of employment or affiliation.

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8. Investigation Procedures

Upon receiving a report:

1. Acknowledgment (if not anonymous) within 5 business days
2. Preliminary assessment within 10 business days
3. Determination of appropriate action:
   • Internal investigation
   • External investigator engagement
   • Referral to authorities
   • Legal review (for brand/IP violations)

Investigations will be:

• Impartial
• Conducted by qualified individuals
• Documented in writing
• Reported to the Board of Directors (or Safeguarding & Ethics Committee)

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9. Special Procedures: Safeguarding Cases

For safeguarding cases involving abuse:

• Immediate risk assessment
• Protective measures if necessary
• Mandatory reporting to authorities where required by law
• Trauma-informed handling
• Support resources offered where appropriate

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10. Brand & Pinkwashing Violations

Reports concerning:

• Unauthorized use of the PinkRibbon logo
• False claims of affiliation
• Pinkwashing
• Counterfeit merchandise
• Unauthorized fundraising

Shall be referred to:

• PinkRibbon International Legal Counsel
• The Brand & Ethics Committee
• Intellectual Property enforcement counsel (if necessary)

PinkRibbon International reserves the right to pursue cease-and-desist letters, legal action, or public clarification where appropriate.

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11. Affiliate Responsibilities

All licensed affiliates must:

• Maintain local reporting mechanisms consistent with this policy
• Immediately report serious allegations to PinkRibbon International headquarters
• Cooperate fully in investigations
• Include safeguarding clauses in partner contracts

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12. Recordkeeping

PinkRibbon International will:

• Maintain secure records of reports
• Document actions taken
• Retain records in accordance with legal requirements

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13. False Reports

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.

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14. Oversight

The PinkRibbon International Board of Directors (or designated Safeguarding & Ethics Committee) shall:

• Oversee implementation of this policy
• Receive periodic reports
• Ensure independence of investigations involving senior leadership
• Review this policy annually

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15. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to comply with evolving laws and international best practices.