CODE OF ETHICS OF PRO LOCAL
Scope of the Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics is binding for all persons employed at PRO LOCAL, members of the Management and Supervisory Board, permanent and temporary associates, interns, and volunteers.
Violation of the principles established by the Code of Ethics will result in disciplinary liability in accordance with applicable rules.
Fundamental Ethical Values
All persons to whom this Code applies are obliged, in carrying out their work duties for PRO LOCAL, to respect, develop, and share the values stated herein, which derive from the mission and objectives of PRO LOCAL.
Rule of Law
The rule of law is a principle under which all individuals, institutions, public and private entities, including the state, are accountable under the law, apply the law equally, and are subject to assessment by an independent judiciary. The rule of law includes measures to ensure adherence to the principles of supremacy of the law, equality before the law, accountability under the law, fairness in application, separation of powers, participation in decision-making, legal certainty, avoidance of arbitrariness, and procedural and legal transparency.
Legality
We adhere to all laws applicable to our activities in the Republic of North Macedonia and in partner countries regarding international projects.
On behalf of PRO LOCAL, we perform our duties transparently and ethically. If any law conflicts with this Code, we adhere to the law. However, if a local custom or policy conflicts with this Code of Conduct, we comply with the Code.
Protection and Respect of Human Rights and Freedoms
We promote the protection and respect of universal and fundamental human rights and freedoms as set forth in the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the European Convention on Human Rights, and the Constitution and laws of the Republic of North Macedonia.
Non-Discrimination
We eliminate all forms of discrimination on the basis of sex, race, skin color, gender, membership in a marginalized group, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, language, nationality, social origin, religion or belief, other convictions, education, political affiliation, personal and social status, mental or physical disability, age, family or marital status, property status, health condition, or any other ground.
Any action or statement that places individuals in an unfavorable position, humiliates, or mocks them is considered discriminatory and will not be tolerated.
Prevention of Sexual Harassment
We oppose all forms of unwanted verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, the purpose or effect of which is to violate a person’s dignity, especially by creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.
We unequivocally condemn all forms of sexual harassment, including but not limited to requests for sexual favors and any other conduct of a sexual nature that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment.
Such behavior will not be tolerated and constitutes a direct violation of our values and policies. We expect all members of our organization to treat one another with dignity and respect. Anyone who experiences or witnesses any form of sexual harassment in the workplace is encouraged to immediately report it to:
Attorney Nikola Dimitrovski, +389 75 420 047, dimitrovski.adv@gmail.com, Law Firm Dimitrovski Bitola, Roosevelt St. 17, Unit 3, 7000 Bitola, http://dimitrovski.mk.
Partnership-Based Cooperation
Our cooperation with partners and target groups is fair, trustworthy, and based on transparency, trust, honesty, and mutual respect. We strive for a constructive approach in managing conflicts.
Integrity
We safeguard privacy, intellectual property, and sensitive personal and business data. Our partners share confidential information with us, and we are obliged to respect and protect this information unless disclosure is specifically authorized or legally required.
Avoidance of Conflict of Interest
We disclose conflicts of interest immediately and resolve them in a manner that is objectively verifiable and understandable to all parties involved.
Zero Tolerance for Corruption, Bribery, and Fraud
We do not accept or offer gifts or other benefits (money, loans, rewards, discounts, etc.) to or from partners, companies, associates, or public officials. We work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery.
Procurement
We strive to ensure procurement of the best quality goods and services for our stakeholders and for the organization itself, in compliance with donor rules set in grant agreements or PRO LOCAL’s internal acts.
All procurement must follow principles of transparency, fair competition, bid evaluation, and contract awarding in line with the Rulebook on Procurement of Goods, Services, and Works.
Compliance with Donor Codes of Ethics
All individuals working for PRO LOCAL under projects financed by national or international organizations must also comply with the donor’s Code of Ethics, which forms an integral part of grant or employment agreements.
Contractual Partners and Stakeholders
We perform our duties within a network of contractual partners, as well as governmental, non-governmental, and private sector actors.
As a principle, we invite all our partners and stakeholders to respect the fundamental values of this Code, regardless of whether a written agreement exists.
Compliance with this Code ensures the reputation and integrity of PRO LOCAL, as well as that of our partners and stakeholders.
The Code, in whole or in part, may be incorporated into our joint written agreements.
Obligations towards PRO LOCAL
All persons covered by this Code must respect the Statute, regulations, and decisions of PRO LOCAL.
They are obliged to safeguard the reputation of PRO LOCAL both in daily work and in public appearances, particularly regarding respect of the values stated in Section 2 of this Code.
When communicating with the public, giving statements to the media, or attending meetings with third parties, any person representing PRO LOCAL must share positions and opinions previously adopted by the organization. Expressing personal views on behalf of PRO LOCAL is prohibited. If personal views are expressed, the individual must clearly and unequivocally state that such views are not those of the organization.
Employees must protect their personal integrity, recuse themselves from decision-making where a conflict of interest exists, and decline any gifts or personal benefits when acting on behalf of the association.
In communication and daily work, employees must show respect to colleagues and assist them in their tasks when necessary.
All persons covered by this Code must treat as professional secrecy any information they access in the course of their regular work.
They must act professionally, diligently, and with respect for agreed plans and deadlines.
Employees of PRO LOCAL Bitola are required to continually improve their professional and general knowledge. They must stay up to date with legislative developments, study regulations and professional literature, and attend trainings for continuous professional development and upgrading of competencies.
Obligations towards Service Users of PRO LOCAL Bitola
Any person providing services under PRO LOCAL projects or activities—especially legal aid and representation—must do so professionally, after carefully reviewing and assessing the factual and legal aspects of the case with due diligence. If the person lacks the necessary knowledge or skills, they must inform the responsible project manager.
All information and data obtained in providing services for PRO LOCAL must be treated as professional secrecy.
Reporting Violations
Our partners and stakeholders are expected to report any violations of this Code, regulations, or laws.
To allow for swift assessment and appropriate measures, it is advisable that reports not be made anonymously. The protection and confidentiality of the reporting person are guaranteed by the designated contact:
Attorney Nikola Dimitrovski, +389 75 420 047, dimitrovski.adv@gmail.com, Law Firm Dimitrovski Bitola, Roosevelt St. 17, Unit 3, 7000 Bitola, http://dimitrovski.mk.
Entry into Force
The Code of Ethics enters into force and becomes applicable on the day of its adoption.
It will be publicly available on PRO LOCAL Bitola’s website and in all work premises.
