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October 15, 2026 — The Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Board of Directors has approved a newly-revised Code of Conduct, a pivotal step toward fostering a more inclusive and safe environment for all members and participants. 

“Everyone is welcome at IRE events, and it’s important that they feel included and supported while in attendance,” said IRE Executive Director Jonathan Kealing. “This new Code of Conduct, guided by our members, provides more clarity about our expectations and the process we will use if someone is accused of breaking the rules.”

Drafted by a dedicated five-member Code of Conduct Task Force, the updated code was recommended by the organization’s Governance Committee and received unanimous approval from the board during its recent retreat. The task force, composed of members committed to enhancing IRE’s policies, reviewed the previous code, gathered input from stakeholders and compared IRE’s standards to those of five other prominent journalism organizations. This collaborative effort identified key areas for improvement, ensuring the code reflects the current needs and values of the community.

“We recognized the necessity to strengthen our Code of Conduct to better serve our members,” said Josh Hinkle, IRE board president and task force chair. “The hard work and collaboration of the task force have resulted in a stronger tool that emphasizes inclusion, safety and community for everyone involved in IRE events.”

The newly-revised Code of Conduct is now in effect and is accessible online alongside a quick reference sheet and updated complaint form. Members are reminded that adherence to this code is mandatory upon joining, renewing or attending any IRE-related events. The revised code broadens its scope to encompass all IRE activities and participants, including members, guests, speakers, sponsors, volunteers, board and committee members, and staff.

Key updates to the Code of Conduct include:

  • Broader Scope: The code now applies to all IRE activities, not just events.
  • Clearer Standards: Specific conduct violations are listed, including harassment and false complaints.
  • Conduct vs. Viewpoints: The code clarifies that it addresses behavior, not differing opinions.
  • Accessible Reporting: Reports can be made by any witness or victim, including anonymous submissions.
  • Defined Decision-Making: The Executive Director can resolve minor issues, while serious cases require Executive Committee review.
  • Structured Complaint Handling: Clear expectations for acknowledging complaints, reviews, and communication of outcomes.
  • Defined Appeals Process: Appeals can be made on specific grounds, reviewed by the Executive Committee and Board.
  • Conflict-of-Interest Protections: Those with potential conflicts must recuse themselves from decision-making.
  • Immediate Event Authority: IRE representatives can take necessary actions during events for safety.
  • Confidentiality and Recordkeeping: Clear guidelines for maintaining confidential records and reporting outcomes, along with an annual review of the code for potential updates.

“We have a strong and supportive community in IRE,” said Governance Committee Chair Kate Howard. “This code reinforces who we are when we’re at our best, and how to hold one another accountable if we fall short.”

Members and participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new code and can access it along with the complaint form under the “About” section on the navigation bar of the IRE website. IRE will continue to remind members of these critical updates before and during upcoming events and meetings to ensure compliance and understanding.

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