Whistleblower & Safeguarding Policy

1. Purpose

PinkRibbon International is committed to integrity, accountability, safety, dignity, and ethical conduct in all its activities worldwide.

This policy establishes procedures for reporting misconduct, abuse, unethical behavior, or legal violations; protecting individuals who report concerns in good faith; preventing retaliation; ensuring safeguarding of vulnerable individuals; and protecting the integrity of the PinkRibbon name and logo.

2. Scope

This policy applies to board members, officers, employees, volunteers, consultants, affiliate organizations, partners and contractors, and any individual interacting with PinkRibbon programs or brand. This policy applies globally, including PinkRibbon affiliates operating under license or agreement.

3. Definitions

Whistleblower: A person who reports suspected misconduct, illegal activity, or unethical behavior in good faith.

Safeguarding: Measures taken to protect individuals — especially vulnerable persons — from abuse, harm, exploitation, or neglect.

Misconduct includes sexual harassment/exploitation/abuse, physical or psychological abuse, discrimination or retaliation, fraud, bribery, financial misconduct, misuse of charitable funds, governance violations, data protection breaches, pinkwashing, and unauthorized or unlawful use of the PinkRibbon name or logo.

4. Guiding Principles

Zero tolerance for abuse or exploitation. Protection against retaliation. Fair, impartial, and timely investigations. Confidential handling of reports. Compliance with applicable U.S., New York, and international laws.

5. Reporting Channels

Reports may be submitted via PinkRibbon's online reporting form, by email to the designated Safeguarding Officer, directly to a Board member, or through an affiliate's local reporting mechanism. Reports may be made anonymously.

6. Confidentiality

All reports will be treated confidentially to the extent possible. Information will only be shared with those who have a legitimate need to know. PinkRibbon International will comply with applicable data protection laws (including GDPR where relevant).

7. Protection Against Retaliation

Retaliation against any person who reports a concern in good faith is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action, including possible termination of employment or affiliation.

8. Investigation Procedures

Acknowledgment (if not anonymous) within 5 business days, preliminary assessment within 10 business days, and determination of appropriate action. Investigations will be impartial, conducted by qualified individuals, documented in writing, and reported to the Board.

9. Special Procedures: Safeguarding Cases

Immediate risk assessment, protective measures if necessary, mandatory reporting to authorities where required, trauma-informed handling, and support resources offered where appropriate.

10. Brand & Pinkwashing Violations

Reports concerning unauthorized use of the PinkRibbon logo, false claims of affiliation, pinkwashing, counterfeit merchandise, or unauthorized fundraising shall be referred to PinkRibbon Legal Counsel, the Brand & Ethics Committee, and IP enforcement counsel.

11. Affiliate Responsibilities

All licensed affiliates must maintain local reporting mechanisms consistent with this policy, immediately report serious allegations to headquarters, cooperate fully in investigations, and include safeguarding clauses in partner contracts.

12. Recordkeeping

PinkRibbon International will maintain secure records of reports and retain them in accordance with legal requirements.

13. False Reports

Knowingly submitting false or malicious allegations is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action. This provision does not apply to reports made in good faith that cannot be substantiated.

14. Oversight

The PinkRibbon Board of Directors shall oversee implementation of this policy, receive periodic reports, ensure independence of investigations involving senior leadership, and review this policy annually.

15. Policy Review

This policy shall be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to comply with evolving laws and international best practices.