As facilitators of Buddhist meetings, your role is to support the community in a neutral and compassionate manner, creating a safe and harmonious environment for practice and discussion. This code of conduct outlines the ethical guidelines that facilitators should follow to uphold integrity, respect, and mindfulness in their facilitation role. The code includes all the elements of the Five Universal Precepts which are the gifts of fearlessness that we offer to ourselves and others. 

1. Non-harm and Compassion (Ahimsa)

Facilitators should strive to create a space where all participants feel safe, respected, and supported. Avoid causing harm through words, actions, or negligence, and actively foster an atmosphere of compassion and kindness.

  • Ensure that discussions and practices remain respectful and free from any form of physical, emotional, or psychological harm.
  • Take steps to ensure all voices are heard and no one feels excluded or marginalized.

2. Neutrality and Impartiality

As a facilitator, you are responsible for maintaining neutrality during meetings. Your role is to guide the flow of discussion or practice, not to take sides or impose your own views.

  • Avoid using your position to promote personal beliefs, preferences, or agendas.
  • Ensure that diverse views and practices are respected, even if they differ from your own.

3. Boundaries and Respect

Facilitators should maintain clear, professional boundaries with all participants. You are not acting as a teacher or advisor and should avoid giving personal spiritual guidance unless explicitly authorized by the community.

  • Refrain from overstepping into a teacher or mentor role unless qualified or assigned that responsibility.
  • Respect the privacy of individuals and avoid pressuring anyone to share more than they are comfortable with.

4. Confidentiality

Respect the confidentiality of what is shared within the group. Sensitive discussions or personal disclosures should be treated with discretion and not shared outside the meeting without permission.

  • Ensure that participants know the confidentiality boundaries of the group.
  • Be cautious when discussing meeting content or participants in public or with others who are not part of the group.

5. Fairness and Inclusivity

Facilitators should ensure that all participants have an equal opportunity to contribute to the meeting, regardless of background, status, or experience.

  • Encourage participation from everyone, especially those who may be more reserved or hesitant to speak.
  • Be mindful of power dynamics and ensure that no one person dominates the discussion.

6. Conflict Resolution

If conflicts arise during the meeting, facilitators are responsible for addressing them in a calm, neutral, and constructive manner. Avoid escalating tensions and encourage peaceful resolutions.

  • Guide participants toward understanding and mutual respect when conflicts occur.
  • Seek support from senior members of the community or ethical bodies if necessary.

7. Mindful Communication

Use mindful and skillful communication at all times. Ensure that your speech is truthful, kind, and beneficial, setting the tone for others to follow.

  • Avoid gossip, divisive speech, or harsh language.
  • Use inclusive and encouraging language to create a positive environment for all.

8. Service-Oriented Attitude

Facilitators are in a role of service, and this should be reflected in their behavior. The focus should be on serving the needs of the group rather than fulfilling personal desires for recognition or control.

  • Approach facilitation with humility, recognizing that your role is to support the sangha, not to lead or control it.
  • Be willing to step aside if another facilitator is better suited to the task.

9. Self-Care and Balance

While facilitating, ensure that you are also taking care of your own well-being. Burnout or stress can negatively impact the quality of your facilitation and the group as a whole.

  • Set clear personal boundaries, and do not take on more responsibility than you can manage.
  • Practice self-care and seek support when needed, either from within the community or from outside resources.

10. Accountability

Facilitators should be open to feedback and willing to reflect on their own behavior. Acknowledge mistakes openly and work to correct them without defensiveness.

  • If concerns are raised by participants about your facilitation, take them seriously and address them with integrity.
  • Be willing to step down or modify your approach if your actions are not serving the group’s well-being.

By adhering to these ethical principles, facilitators can help create a supportive and nurturing environment that allows all participants to engage in practice and discussion with confidence, openness, and mutual respect.