The American University in Cairo (AUC) values responsibility and integrity. Our Code of Ethical Conduct contains general operating guidelines with the highest standards of ethics. We expect, encourage, and protect open, honest communications. We want you to feel comfortable in approaching your supervisor or management in instances where you believe violations of policies or standards have occurred or may have occurred and you would like some guidance. All employees should report any real or potential violation of University policy.
Retaliation against an individual who reports conduct that violates, or that they suspect violates, a University Policy is strictly prohibited. Retaliation as a response to a good faith report, whether determined to be founded or unfounded, will not be tolerated. Retaliation, whether actual or threatened, destroys a sense of community and trust that is central to a quality environment.
There may be circumstances where you prefer to report a situation in confidence to a University official other than your immediate supervisor. You may also prefer to file a more formal, written report, whether anonymously or with the assurance of confidentiality if you report by name. To facilitate confidential reporting, we have engaged an independent third-party provider, NAVEX. Their system is a standard tool used by universities in the United States and is similar to the Advocate system, which we already use for our students. This confidential and impartial web-based system directs the reports to the authorized University official to handle the issue and tracks progress to ensure timely resolution.
The AUC Ethics HelpLine forwards the information you provide on a confidential and anonymous basis if you so choose when submitting your report. This system guarantees documentation of complaints or any reported comments, as well as the timeliness and completeness of the Administration’s response.