Introduction

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), we stand for fairness, dignity, and accountability in everything we do. This Code of Conduct defines the ethical, legal, and professional standards expected of all members of our organization — including staff, volunteers, consultants, and partners. It reflects our commitment to integrity, transparency, and justice as guiding principles in all activities and decisions.

The Code ensures that our operations comply with European Union laws, international human rights standards, and good governance practices. It provides guidance on ethical behaviour, data protection, internal controls, and compliance with anti-corruption and anti-money laundering (AML/CFT) standards.

JHR aims to communicate with Dutch society and EU countries in particular, and with NGOs and individuals worldwide in general, and to foster a dialogue based on universal values. In carrying out its activities, JHR does not discriminate based on religion, language, race, gender, or any other grounds.

All individuals affiliated with JHR are expected to know, understand, and adhere to this Code, representing the organization with honesty, professionalism, and respect at all times.

1. Core Principles and Values

Our mission is to promote justice, equality, and human rights through ethical action and responsible governance. Every member of JHR must uphold the following values:

• Integrity: Acting honestly and consistently with our mission and commitments.
• Transparency: Ensuring openness and accountability in decision-making and communication.
• Respect: Treating all individuals with fairness and dignity, free from discrimination or bias.
• Independence: Making decisions free from coercion, undue influence, or personal interest.
• Confidentiality: Protecting sensitive information and respecting the privacy of all individuals.
• Responsibility: Taking ownership of our actions and ensuring compliance with all applicable laws.

These principles guide every policy and practice within JHR.

2. Freedom to Make Independent Decisions

JHR upholds the freedom of independent decision-making as essential to justice and integrity. All members and volunteers are expected to exercise professional judgment objectively and without influence from external interests, donors, or political entities.

Decisions must always be guided by JHR’s mission, ethical values, and legal obligations — not by personal gain or outside pressure. Independence means the courage to act based on evidence, ethics, and fairness, even when facing challenges or opposition.

JHR prohibits any interference, coercion, or manipulation in internal decision-making processes. Each member of the organization has the right and duty to express reasoned opinions and raise ethical concerns without fear of retaliation.

3. Transparency and Accountability

Transparency is the foundation of trust. JHR ensures that its governance, finances, and operations are open, accessible, and verifiable.

We commit to:

• Publishing clear information about our structure, funding, and activities.
• Maintaining accurate records of financial and operational decisions.
• Reporting our results and challenges honestly and comprehensively.
• Ensuring that all stakeholders — including donors, partners, and beneficiaries — have access to reliable information about our work.

Accountability is reinforced through regular audits, external evaluations, and transparent reporting mechanisms. Misrepresentation, concealment of information, or falsification of documents are strictly prohibited.

4. Privacy and Data Protection (GDPR Compliance)

JHR recognizes privacy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of trust. All personal data handled by the organization is managed in full compliance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other relevant laws.

We ensure that personal data is:

• Collected lawfully and transparently.
• Used only for legitimate, clearly defined purposes.
• Limited to what is necessary for those purposes.
• Kept accurate, secure, and up to date.
• Retained only as long as needed and deleted securely thereafter.

JHR employs robust security measures, including encryption, controlled access, and anonymization where appropriate. The Data Protection Officer (DPO) oversees compliance and acts as a contact point for privacy inquiries.

Individuals whose data we process have the right to access, correct, or request deletion of their information. All staff must complete data protection training and report any potential breaches immediately to the DPO through info@jushr.org 

Privacy and human dignity are inseparable — protecting one means protecting the other.

5. Protection of Sensitive Information

Sensitive information — whether personal, legal, financial, or operational — must be safeguarded at all times. Unauthorized disclosure, misuse, or alteration of such information is a serious violation of this Code.

JHR’s information security measures include:

• Encryption of data both in transit and at rest.
• Restricted access based on role and necessity.
• Secure storage for physical and digital documents.
• Regular security audits and risk assessments.
• Incident response procedures for potential breaches.

All volunteers, contractors, and partners are bound by confidentiality agreements. Information is shared internally or externally only when necessary and authorized.

Handling sensitive information with care is not merely a legal requirement; it is a moral duty to those we serve.

6. Compliance with EU and International Laws

JHR operates within the framework of European Union law and international legal standards. Compliance is mandatory and encompasses all relevant areas, including:

• Data protection (GDPR)
• Anti-money laundering (AML) and countering the financing of terrorism (CFT)
• Anti-corruption and anti-bribery
• Equality and non-discrimination
• Labor rights and workplace safety
• Ethical procurement and financial reporting

We cooperate fully with regulatory authorities and auditors and maintain transparent records to demonstrate compliance. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse; each staff member is responsible for understanding and adhering to relevant regulations.

Compliance is not bureaucracy — it is the embodiment of justice through lawful action.

7. Internal Control and Risk Management

JHR’s internal control framework ensures that operations are ethical, efficient, and aligned with our mission. Internal controls are designed to:

• Prevent fraud, waste, and misuse of resources.
• Ensure accurate and transparent financial reporting.
• Protect assets and information.
• Identify and mitigate organizational risks.

Regular internal and external audits are conducted to verify compliance and performance. Audit results are reviewed by management and, when necessary, corrective measures are implemented promptly.

Integrity is sustained through vigilance — and vigilance is everyone’s responsibility.

8. Anti-Corruption, Anti-Bribery, and Fraud Prevention

JHR maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption, bribery, fraud, or any form of unethical influence.

Prohibited Conduct Includes:

• Offering, requesting, or accepting bribes, gifts, or favours intended to influence decisions.
• Misusing organizational funds or assets for personal benefit.
• Falsifying documents, reports, or records.
• Engaging in or facilitating fraudulent financial transactions.
• Participating in conflicts of interest or undisclosed partnerships.

Preventive Measures:

• All financial transactions are documented, traceable, and subject to dual authorization.
• Staff/Executive Committee members must declare potential conflicts of interest in writing.
• Gifts or hospitality exceeding nominal value must be disclosed and approved.
• Procurement and contracting follow transparent, competitive processes.
• Training on anti-corruption and ethical conduct is mandatory for all staff.

Violations of this section will result in disciplinary action, including termination and referral to legal authorities when applicable.

Integrity is not negotiable — it defines who we are.

9. Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (CFT)

JHR strictly complies with all applicable AML/CFT laws and regulations. We take proactive measures to prevent the misuse of our organization for money laundering or terrorist financing.

Our AML/CFT Commitments:

• Conducting due diligence on all donors, partners, and contractors.
• Verifying the lawful source of funds before acceptance.
• Monitoring financial transactions for unusual or suspicious activity.
• Maintaining accurate financial and contractual records.
• Reporting suspicious activities to competent authorities when required by law.

No funds or resources shall be accepted, transferred, or distributed in any way that could contribute — directly or indirectly — to illegal or unethical activities.

JHR cooperates fully with regulatory bodies and financial institutions to uphold transparency and accountability in all financial operations.

10. Gender Equality and Non-Discrimination

JHR believes that true justice requires equality. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment that values diversity and ensures equal treatment regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.

Our Gender Equality Plan promotes:

• Equal opportunities in recruitment, promotion, and pay.
• Safe and respectful working conditions free from harassment or discrimination.
• Balanced representation of genders in leadership and decision-making roles.
• Training and awareness on gender sensitivity and inclusive communication.
• Integration of gender perspectives into all programs and policies.

Discrimination, harassment, or bias of any form is unacceptable and will result in disciplinary action.

Equality is not a goal — it is a principle embedded in everything JHR does.

11. No Connection to Prohibited or Unethical Activities

JHR categorically rejects any connection to activities that violate human rights or international law. We do not engage in or support:

• Money laundering or terrorist financing
• Human trafficking or exploitation
• Corruption or fraud
• Unlawful political or commercial influence
• Discrimination, hate speech, or incitement to violence

All donors, partners, and contractors are screened to ensure ethical alignment and legal compliance. Any suspicion of involvement in prohibited activities is grounds for immediate termination of cooperation.

Our integrity is our strength. We stand apart from any activity that undermines justice, freedom, or human dignity.

12. Reporting Misconduct and Whistleblower Protection

JHR promotes a culture of openness and accountability. Any individual who witnesses or suspects misconduct, corruption, or non-compliance is encouraged to report it promptly.

All reports are investigated objectively and confidentially. 

Speaking up is an act of integrity — not defiance. It protects our organization and strengthens justice.

13. Implementation and Enforcement

This Code of Conduct applies to all members, partners, and affiliates of JHR. Violations of its provisions may result in disciplinary measures, including suspension, termination, or legal action.

Each member must confirm their understanding of this Code and agree to comply with its principles. Management is responsible for enforcement, ensuring that policies, controls, and procedures support the Code’s intent.

Conclusion

The Justice & Human Rights (JHR) Code of Conduct embodies our collective responsibility to act with honesty, fairness, and respect. It is both a legal and moral framework — a declaration of who we are and what we stand for.

Every action taken by JHR must reflect our mission: to promote justice, defend human rights, and serve humanity with integrity.

By adhering to this Code, we honour those values, strengthen our credibility, and contribute to a world where ethics and justice are not aspirations, but lived realities.

Freedom to Make Independent Decisions

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), we are not affiliated with any institution, and we do not take instructions from any institution or organization other than our own internal committees. We recognize that the freedom to make independent decisions lies at the heart of human dignity, equality, and justice. Independence of thought and action is not merely a privilege; it is a fundamental right and an essential component of our ethical and operational foundation.

Our Core Belief

Freedom to make independent decisions empowers individuals, institutions, and societies to pursue truth, fairness, and accountability. For JHR, this principle means fostering an environment where every person and organization we work with can act autonomously, guided by evidence, conscience, and respect for human rights.

We believe that independence in decision-making safeguards against coercion, discrimination, and undue influence. It enables fair processes, unbiased judgments, and transparent governance. JHR’s mission—to promote justice and protect human rights globally—depends on the integrity of decisions made freely and responsibly.

Independence Within Our Organization

Within JHR, we ensure that all decisions—strategic, operational, and ethical—are made through processes that uphold independence and objectivity. Our internal governance structure is designed to prevent conflicts of interest and external interference. Each member of our team is encouraged to express their professional judgment openly, supported by clear policies that guarantee autonomy in the execution of their duties.

We maintain independence in our partnerships, funding sources, and advocacy work. Financial or institutional support is accepted only from parties whose values align with our ethical standards and who do not attempt to influence our direction or decisions. In doing so, JHR preserves its credibility and remains steadfastly committed to truth and justice over convenience or external pressure.

Empowering Independent Voices

JHR actively supports the right of individuals, communities, and human rights defenders to make independent decisions about their lives and futures. We advocate for systems where people can freely express their opinions, make informed choices, and participate fully in democratic processes without fear of reprisal.

Through education, advocacy, and collaboration, we promote conditions that strengthen autonomy—access to reliable information, protection from manipulation, and respect for cultural and personal diversity. We oppose all forms of coercion, whether political, economic, or social, that limit people’s ability to think and act independently.

Ethical Responsibility

With freedom comes responsibility. JHR emphasizes that independent decision-making must be guided by ethical reflection, respect for the rights of others, and a commitment to truth. We encourage transparent reasoning and open dialogue, ensuring that decisions are not only independent but also fair, informed, and aligned with universal human rights principles.

Our policies and procedures reflect this balance. We ensure that every independent action taken under the JHR umbrella is consistent with our mission of promoting justice and human dignity.

Commitment to Continuous Integrity

The right to make independent decisions is not static—it must be continually defended and nurtured. JHR regularly reviews its governance and decision-making frameworks to ensure they remain free from bias and influence. We invest in awareness and accountability mechanisms that reinforce ethical independence across all levels of our organization.

We also collaborate with partners who share our dedication to independence and integrity, amplifying our collective ability to advocate for justice.

Conclusion

Freedom to make independent decisions is both our guiding principle and our daily practice. It defines who we are, how we act, and what we stand for. At JHR, independence is not simply about autonomy—it is about courage: the courage to stand by what is right, to make choices rooted in ethics and evidence, and to uphold justice even when it is most difficult.

Through our unwavering commitment to independent decision-making, we honour the very essence of human rights—the ability of every person to act freely, responsibly, and with dignity.

Transparency

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), we believe that transparency is the foundation of trust. It is the light that ensures accountability, integrity, and respect for those we serve. Transparency is not only a principle of good governance but a moral obligation that defines how we operate, communicate, and uphold justice.

Our Commitment to Openness

Transparency means being open about who we are, what we do, and how we do it. At JHR, we are committed to providing clear and accessible information about our mission, governance, partnerships, and activities. We disclose our objectives, strategies, and results in ways that allow our stakeholders—beneficiaries, partners, donors, and the public—to understand and evaluate our work.

We publish information about our organizational structure, decision-making processes, and use of resources. By maintaining open lines of communication, we ensure that our actions can be scrutinized, our impact measured, and our values verified.

Our communications are designed to be honest, accurate, and timely. We do not obscure mistakes or misrepresent facts. Instead, we see transparency as a continuous dialogue that strengthens our credibility and invites improvement.

Accountability Through Transparency

Transparency is inseparable from accountability. At JHR, we hold ourselves answerable for every decision we make and every resource we use. Our policies ensure that financial records, operational plans, and project outcomes are documented, reviewed, and, where appropriate, made publicly available.

We maintain rigorous internal reporting systems that track compliance. These systems are subject to oversight by independent reviewers and governing bodies to confirm that our work aligns with our ethical and legal obligations.

By being transparent, we empower our stakeholders to hold us accountable and help us remain true to our founding mission: promoting justice, human rights, and integrity in all our actions.

Ethical Communication and Integrity

For JHR, transparency is not simply about sharing information—it is about doing so with integrity. We commit to truthful and responsible communication, avoiding exaggeration, omission, or manipulation.

Our reports, press releases, and statements are written to inform, not to mislead. When challenges arise, we communicate them openly and constructively, recognizing that honesty is the path to genuine progress.

We respect the right of the public and our partners to access accurate information. Therefore, all materials shared by JHR undergo careful review to ensure clarity, factual accuracy, and consistency with our ethical standards.

Transparency in Decision-Making

We promote openness not only externally but also within our internal governance. Decision-making at JHR follows clearly defined procedures, where rationales and criteria are documented and communicated to relevant stakeholders. This transparency fosters participation, reduces bias, and promotes trust within our organization.

We encourage team members to question, contribute, and seek explanations for strategic choices. This culture of openness helps us remain dynamic, self-aware, and aligned with our mission.

Balancing Transparency and Privacy

While we are committed to transparency, we recognize the need to protect the privacy and safety of individuals involved in our work. We never disclose information that could endanger beneficiaries, partners, or members, or that violates data protection laws.

Our transparency practices are guided by principles of proportionality and responsibility—sharing what is necessary to foster trust and accountability while safeguarding confidential and sensitive information.

Continuous Improvement

Transparency is not a static goal but an evolving standard. We regularly evaluate our transparency practices and adapt them to meet emerging ethical, legal, and technological developments.

We also welcome external feedback as a tool for improvement. By engaging with civil society, regulators, and the communities we serve, we learn how to communicate more effectively and operate more openly.

Conclusion

At JHR, transparency reflects our deepest values: honesty, justice, and respect for human dignity. We understand that trust is earned through clarity and consistency, not promises. Therefore, we pledge to remain transparent in all that we do—acknowledging both our achievements and our challenges with humility and integrity.

By committing to transparency, JHR strengthens its role as a responsible, trustworthy, and principled actor in the global pursuit of justice and human rights.

Privacy and GDPR Compliance

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), the right to privacy is inseparable from human dignity and justice. We believe that protecting personal data is a fundamental aspect of defending human rights. Our commitment to privacy is rooted not only in ethical principles but also in full compliance with the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) — the global benchmark for data protection and accountability.

Our Ethical Foundation

Privacy is a universal right, essential to autonomy, freedom of thought, and personal security. JHR recognizes that the misuse of personal data can undermine trust, perpetuate inequality, and expose individuals to harm. Therefore, we treat privacy not simply as a technical requirement but as an ethical duty that shapes our organizational culture, operations, and partnerships.

We view GDPR compliance as more than a legal standard — it is a moral commitment to respect the individual’s right to control their own information and to ensure that data serves humanity, not the other way around.

Our Privacy and GDPR Principles

JHR operates under a unified framework that integrates ethical privacy standards and the legal requirements of the GDPR. This framework is guided by the following principles:

1. Lawfulness, Fairness, and Transparency: We collect and process personal data only for legitimate purposes, always communicating clearly why and how the information is used.
2. Purpose Limitation: Data is collected for specific, explicit purposes and never used in ways incompatible with those purposes.
3. Data Minimization: We gather only what is strictly necessary for our work, ensuring that we respect the boundaries of personal privacy.
4. Accuracy: We take every reasonable step to keep personal data accurate, complete, and up to date.
5. Storage Limitation: Data is retained only for as long as needed to fulfill its purpose or to meet legal and ethical obligations.
6. Integrity and Confidentiality: We implement robust technical and organizational measures to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction of data.
7. Accountability: JHR takes full responsibility for ensuring ongoing compliance with GDPR and the broader principles of data ethics.

Data Protection in Practice

JHR integrates data protection into every level of its operations — from digital platforms and advocacy work to internal communications and research projects. Personal data is processed only by authorized staff, each bound by confidentiality agreements and trained in GDPR compliance.

Our systems utilize encryption and secure servers to protect sensitive information. When engaging third-party service providers, we ensure they adhere to the same standards of data protection and sign data processing agreements reflecting GDPR requirements.

Rights of Data Subjects

In accordance with GDPR, every individual whose data is processed by JHR has clearly defined rights, including the:

• Right to Access – to know what personal data is held and how it is used;
• Right to Rectification – to correct inaccurate or incomplete information;
• Right to Erasure (“Right to be Forgotten”) – to request the deletion of personal data where legally and ethically appropriate;
• Right to Restrict Processing – to limit the use of data in specific contexts;
• Right to Data Portability – to receive their data in a structured, commonly used format;
• Right to Object – to challenge data processing based on legitimate interests or direct communication;
• Right to Lodge a Complaint – to contact supervisory authorities if their rights are not respected.

JHR ensures that these rights are communicated clearly, exercised freely, and handled promptly. Our privacy policy provides transparent instructions for individuals who wish to exercise their rights or raise concerns.

Balancing Transparency and Privacy

As an organization that values both transparency and accountability, JHR balances the need for openness with the duty to protect personal data. We share information about our work and governance responsibly, without disclosing personal or sensitive data that could endanger individuals or violate their rights.

We take special care in handling data involving vulnerable groups, whistleblowers, or victims of abuse. Such data is processed with heightened sensitivity, minimal exposure, and maximum protection.

Data Protection Officer and Oversight

To ensure continuous compliance, one of the board members of JHR has also appointed a Data Protection Officer (DPO) responsible for monitoring internal practices, advising on GDPR compliance, and serving as a contact point for supervisory authorities and data subjects. The DPO ensures that all processing activities reflect JHR’s ethical and legal commitments to privacy. You can contact the DPO at info@jushr.org. You will receive a response within 30 days at the latest.

Regular assessments and audits are conducted to identify risks and enhance our data protection measures. When new technologies or programs are introduced, we perform Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) to ensure privacy is preserved by design and by default.

Awareness

We promote a culture of awareness where privacy and human rights are intertwined — ensuring that every member of our organization acts as a guardian of personal data.

Continuous Commitment

Privacy and GDPR compliance are not static goals but evolving obligations. JHR commits to reviewing its policies regularly, staying aligned with technological developments, regulatory updates, and global best practices.

Conclusion

For JHR, protecting privacy and complying with GDPR go hand in hand with our mission to promote justice, human dignity, and human rights. We believe that the ethical handling of personal data reflects our respect for the individuals we serve and reinforces the credibility of our cause.

In safeguarding personal information, we safeguard trust — and in safeguarding trust, we uphold justice.

Compliance with EU Laws

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), our commitment to justice extends beyond advocacy — it is reflected in the way we conduct our operations. As an organization based in and cooperating with partners across the European Union, JHR is firmly dedicated to full compliance with EU laws and regulations. This commitment ensures that every aspect of our work — from governance and data protection to financial management and ethical conduct — upholds the legal frameworks and democratic values that define the European Union.

Our Legal and Ethical Foundation

Compliance with EU laws is not a matter of formality; it is a reflection of our ethical responsibility. The European Union’s legal order is grounded in respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy, equality, the rule of law, and human rights — values that are identical to those enshrined in JHR’s mission.

By aligning our policies and practices with EU law, we reinforce our credibility, ensure accountability, and contribute to the Union’s vision of a fair, transparent, and rights-based society.

Scope of Compliance

JHR’s compliance commitment covers all areas relevant to our operations, including but not limited to:

• Data Protection: Adhering to the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and related directives to safeguard personal information.
• Financial Integrity: Ensuring transparency and accountability in accounting, reporting, and the use of funds in accordance with EU financial regulations.
• Anti-Discrimination and Equality: Complying with EU directives on gender equality, equal treatment, and inclusion in the workplace and beyond.
• Employment Standards: Upholding EU labor laws, workplace safety requirements, and fair employment practices.
• Public Procurement and Partnerships: Following EU standards for transparent and fair procurement processes when collaborating with institutions, suppliers, and contractors.
• Environmental Responsibility: Respecting EU environmental regulations in our operations, including sustainability practices and digital resource management.

Rule of Law and Institutional Integrity

As an organization that advocates for justice and human rights, JHR holds the rule of law as a non-negotiable principle. We operate within the bounds of applicable EU and national laws, ensuring that every decision, policy, and partnership is grounded in legality and integrity.

We maintain internal procedures to ensure that all staff and partners understand and apply the relevant EU legal obligations within their roles. Regular internal reviews and consultations with legal experts help us monitor compliance and adjust to any changes in the regulatory landscape.

Transparency and Accountability in Governance

Compliance is closely linked with transparency and accountability. JHR ensures that its governance structures and decision-making processes meet EU standards for openness, integrity, and accountability.

All financial and operational records are maintained in accordance with EU accounting principles and are available for inspection by authorized entities. We also cooperate fully with regulators, auditors, and funding bodies to demonstrate adherence to legal and ethical obligations.

Human Rights and EU Charter Alignment

The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights serves as both a legal and moral compass for JHR’s work. Every activity we undertake — from data management to advocacy — is evaluated against the Charter’s core principles of equality, justice, and respect for human dignity.

By aligning our internal policies with EU law, JHR contributes to the broader effort to uphold fundamental freedoms across Europe and beyond.

Training and Awareness

We recognize that compliance is not achieved through policy alone but through awareness and commitment. JHR provides continuous training to staff, volunteers, and partners on EU legal requirements, ethical standards, and risk management practices.

This ensures that compliance becomes an everyday habit — embedded in our culture and reflected in our actions.

Ethical Conduct and Anti-Corruption Measures

JHR enforces a strict Code of Conduct that prohibits bribery, corruption, conflicts of interest, and any form of unlawful influence. We maintain clear reporting channels for suspected violations and ensure that whistleblowers are protected under EU Whistleblower Protection Directive (EU 2019/1937).

All donations, funding agreements, and partnerships undergo legal and ethical due diligence to ensure alignment with EU laws and our organizational values.

Continuous Monitoring and Improvement

EU law is dynamic, evolving with new regulations and directives. JHR remains proactive in monitoring legal developments, seeking expert guidance when necessary, and updating its internal frameworks accordingly.

We treat compliance as a living process — one that adapts to change, anticipates risk, and continuously strengthens our governance and accountability.

Conclusion

For JHR, compliance with EU laws is far more than an administrative obligation — it is an expression of who we are and what we stand for. It demonstrates our respect for justice, equality, and the rule of law, not only in principle but in practice.

By adhering to EU legal frameworks, JHR ensures that its operations reflect the same values it promotes: fairness, transparency, and respect for human rights. In doing so, we strengthen both our integrity and our impact, contributing to a Europe — and a world — governed by justice and human dignity.

Secure Storage of Digital Materials

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), the secure storage of digital materials is essential to protecting the integrity, privacy, and confidentiality of the information entrusted to us. We recognize that safeguarding digital assets is not only a technical obligation but a fundamental part of upholding human rights and maintaining trust.

JHR employs robust security measures to ensure that all digital data — including personal records, research materials, and communications — is stored safely and accessed only by authorized individuals. Our systems use encryption, multi-factor authentication, and secure cloud infrastructure that comply with EU data protection standards and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

We regularly conduct security audits, risk assessments, and data integrity checks to identify vulnerabilities and strengthen our defences. Sensitive information is backed up securely and retained only for as long as necessary for legal or operational purposes.

All staff and partners receive ongoing training in cybersecurity awareness and ethical data handling, ensuring that information security is embedded in our daily practices.

Through these measures, JHR guarantees that the digital materials in its care remain confidential, protected, and used solely in support of justice, human dignity, and the public good.

Internal Control Procedure

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), our internal control procedures ensure that every aspect of our organization operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability. These controls are designed to safeguard resources, promote ethical decision-making, and guarantee compliance with both EU laws and international best practices.     

JHR maintains a structured system of checks and balances that covers financial management, data protection, project oversight, and risk mitigation. All transactions and decisions are subject to clear approval hierarchies, documented workflows, and periodic independent reviews.

We conduct regular internal audits to verify that activities align with our mission, ethical standards, and legal obligations. Any discrepancies or irregularities are investigated promptly and transparently, with corrective measures implemented as needed.

Our staff and partners are trained to recognize risks and uphold accountability in all operations. Reporting mechanisms — including confidential channels — are available for raising concerns about potential misconduct or non-compliance.

Through these measures, JHR ensures that its work remains consistent, efficient, and ethically sound. Internal control is more than a governance tool; it is our commitment to honesty, reliability, and continuous improvement in the service of justice and human rights.

Gender Equality Plan

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), we believe that gender equality is fundamental to justice, democracy, and human dignity. Our Gender Equality Plan (GEP) reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring that all individuals — regardless of gender — have equal opportunities, representation, and respect within our organization and in the communities we serve.

JHR promotes a workplace culture built on fairness, inclusivity, and zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment. Recruitment, promotion, and remuneration practices are conducted transparently and based solely on merit, without bias or prejudice.

We actively support the empowerment of women and gender-diverse individuals, encouraging their participation in leadership roles, decision-making processes, and advocacy initiatives. Training programs and awareness sessions address unconscious bias, gender sensitivity, and equitable professional development.

JHR also ensures that gender perspectives are integrated into all research, partnerships, and policy activities. Data on gender balance and equality outcomes is collected and reviewed annually to measure progress and guide improvement.

Through our Gender Equality Plan, JHR reaffirms its commitment to fairness and representation. True justice cannot exist without equality — and we strive every day to make gender equity a living reality across all aspects of our mission and work.

No Connection to Prohibited Activities

At Justice & Human Rights (JHR), we uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct and explicitly maintain no connection — direct or indirect — to any prohibited, illegal, or unethical activities. Our integrity is fundamental to our mission, and we ensure that all our actions, partnerships, and financial operations reflect full compliance with EU and international laws.

JHR strictly prohibits any association with activities related to money laundering, terrorism financing, corruption, fraud, human trafficking, exploitation, or violations of human rights. We conduct rigorous due diligence on all partners, donors, and contractors to verify legitimacy, ethical standing, and adherence to applicable legal frameworks.

Our internal controls and compliance systems are designed to detect and prevent any involvement in unlawful or unethical behaviour. Staff and collaborators receive ongoing training in anti-bribery, anti-corruption, and sanctions compliance to ensure awareness and accountability.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct or unethical influence, and any suspected breach is investigated immediately through transparent and fair procedures.

Through these safeguards, JHR reaffirms its unwavering commitment to legality, integrity, and justice — ensuring that every aspect of our work contributes to a world free from abuse, exploitation, and corruption.