Code of Conduct

By enrolling in ABROADER’s program, the intern commits to adhering to the Code of Conduct outlined in this document. This Code is implemented to safeguard the well-being and safety of the intern, Host Organizations, local communities, and ABROADER, ensuring a productive and rewarding internship experience for all parties involved.

ABROADER is an equal opportunity organization and upholds non-discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, gender, sexuality, ideology, religion, economic status, age, or ethnic background. Interns are expected to conduct themselves in a responsible, professional, and respectful manner, upholding the rights of others. In addition to the pre-departure guidelines provided by ABROADER, participants are responsible for researching and understanding relevant laws, as well as the health, safety, political, and cultural conditions of the host country.

Interns must recognize that their behavior reflects not only on ABROADER and their home institution but also their home country. Therefore, to promote the well-being of all involved, it is crucial that interns act responsibly at all times. Their conduct should contribute to fostering long-term goodwill between their home country and Vietnam, as well as between ABROADER and host organizations.

The following behaviors are expected of all interns. Violations may result in the suspension of the internship program and, in the case of in-person programs, the compulsory return of the intern to their home country.

General Conduct

Interns are expected to comply with all applicable laws and regulations during the program. It is imperative that their actions do not contravene any local laws or regulations.

Interns are responsible for:

• Ensuring they are in sufficient health to undertake the program.
• Acting appropriately and respectfully towards local people, fellow participants, and staff, in accordance with the laws, customs, and regulations of the host country.
• Effectively communicating their interests, skills, limitations, and needs to ABROADER and host representatives.
• Acknowledging and agreeing to comply with ABROADER’s Preventing Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (PSEAH) Policy, Child Protection Policy, and Modern Slavery Policy.

Violation of any of the following may result in disciplinary action:

• Criminal behavior or violation of local laws, including theft or vandalism.
• Abusive language or behavior toward staff, hosts, or other participants.
• Disorderly, indecent, or obscene conduct violent behavior
• Damage to program facilities, including accommodation and host organizations’ facilities.
• Repeated intoxication.
• Discrimination based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, ideology, religion, or other factors.
• Sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment.
• Falsification of documents or personal records submitted to ABROADER as part of the application or acceptance process.
• Falsification of documents or personal records submitted to ABROADER.
• Any conduct deemed inappropriate, including but not limited to violations of ABROADER’s policies.

Drugs & Alcohol

The possession, sale, or consumption of illegal drugs is a serious offense in Vietnam and violates the law. ABROADER will not assist in legal matters arising from the use of alcohol or drugs. Irresponsible behaviors such as drinking excessively, gambling, fighting, swearing, and other similar unprofessional activities are strictly prohibited during the internship. ABROADER will not offer assistance in legal matters caused by alcohol, drugs, or other violations of Vietnam’s laws.

Sexual Misconduct

ABROADER prohibits interns from engaging in prostitution, as it is illegal in Vietnam. Any involvement in prostitution or related activities will result in legal consequences from the Vietnamese government.

ABROADER enforces a strict policy against sexual misconduct, which includes non-consensual physical contact of a sexual nature. This includes behaviors involving force, threats, intimidation, or advantage gained through the victim’s mental or physical incapacity. The use of drugs, including alcohol, by the perpetrator will be considered an aggravating factor.

Sexual harassment or any conduct that may be perceived as such is prohibited. This includes using inappropriate language or displaying inappropriate materials in the workplace or public spaces.

Communication Policy

ABROADER commits to providing timely, accurate, and effective communication throughout the program. Interns are expected to respond promptly and courteously to all information requests related to the organization of the program.

Interns must immediately inform the Program Coordinator in cases of emergency, including illness, accidents, crimes, or disputes with locals.

By participating in the program, interns consent to the use of their information and images in ABROADER’s marketing materials, and they agree to provide evaluations and testimonials at the conclusion of the internship.

Interns must not use ABROADER’s or Host Organizations’ identifiers, supplies, or equipment for personal or political matters. When communicating on matters involving ABROADER or host organizations, interns should not speak on behalf of the organizations unless authorized to do so.

Interns must avoid actions that could damage the reputation or integrity of ABROADER, host organizations, or any third parties.

Confidentiality

Interns must respect confidentiality during the internship. Sharing information related to the internship or accommodation with external parties (e.g., universities, family members) is permissible only when necessary for placement arrangements. However, interns are prohibited from disclosing contact details of host organizations or partners to third parties not involved in the placement process (e.g., friends, classmates, or public social media) before, during, or after the internship.

Violation of this confidentiality may lead to the cancellation of the internship or accommodation placement, and ABROADER reserves the right to take legal action to protect its interests.

Behavior Policy at Host Organizations

While interning at a Host Organization, interns are expected to behave in a professional and ethical manner at all times. This includes but is not limited to:

• Remaining drug and alcohol-free.
• Familiarizing themselves with and adhering to organizational procedures.
• Maintaining confidentiality regarding work-related projects and personnel.
• Dressing appropriately for the workplace, in accordance with the host organization’s dress code.
• Demonstrating a positive, problem-solving attitude.
• Observing the working culture of the organization and adapting accordingly.
• Communicating effectively and keeping others informed.
• Seeking feedback and accepting constructive criticism.
• Reporting any work-related issues or incidents to the ABROADER Program Coordinator.

Interns must not take holidays without prior approval from the Host Organization and ABROADER.

Responsibilities Policy at Host Organizations

Interns are required to:

• Adhere to all laws and regulations established by the Government of Vietnam, ABROADER’s Internship Code of Conduct, and the work policies of the Host Organization.
• Assume full responsibility for any personal expenses and living costs that fall outside of ABROADER’s service coverage as outlined in the Program Fee Coverage.
• Bear full responsibility for any physical harm, including accidents or injuries, sustained during their time in Vietnam. If such incidents occur as a result of activities assigned by the Host Organization or due to the intentional or grossly negligent actions of the Host Organization’s personnel, the intern may be entitled to make a claim through their insurance coverage.
• Notify the Program Coordinator prior to any travel plans outside the host city. In case of emergencies—such as illness, traffic accidents, robbery, or any other critical situation—immediately inform the Program Coordinator.
• Report any emergency situations to the Program Coordinator, including but not limited to illness, accidents, criminal activities, or disputes with locals.
• Complete ABROADER’s Internship Quality Survey and participate in a final evaluation meeting with ABROADER at the conclusion of the internship.
• Contribute to ABROADER by providing potential testimonials and sharing experiences for future program participants.

Accommodation policy

By participating in the program, interns agree to comply with the accommodation rules and policies established by ABROADER. Housing disputes will be resolved in accordance with these policies. While ABROADER ensures accommodation is arranged, we cannot guarantee specific housing requests, room arrangements, or locations.

Interns are responsible for their accommodation, including any damage or loss to property, appliances, or furniture. Respect for housemates and neighbors is essential to maintain a positive living environment.

Interns must:

• Obtain permission before inviting guests to their accommodation.
• Refrain from sharing keys with unauthorized individuals.
• Respect the privacy and quiet hours of housemates and neighbors.

In respect to local law and culture

Interns must respect the local culture, traditions, and religious sites. Actions such as taking photographs without consent or disregarding local customs may cause offense. Interns are expected to follow all local regulations and avoid behaviors that could result in legal consequences.
For in-person programs, interns must inform the Program Coordinator of any travel plans outside the host city and obtain approval before booking.

Transportation

For in-person programs, interns without a Vietnamese driving license are prohibited from driving in Vietnam. ABROADER advises against driving vehicles or motorbikes, as traffic laws in Vietnam differ significantly from those in the intern’s home country. ABROADER’s insurance will not cover injuries resulting from driving, and interns assume full responsibility for any such incidents.

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Violating any part of this Code of Conduct may lead to the immediate suspension of the internship program, and for in-person programs, may result in the intern’s return to their home country.

By participating in the ABROADER program, interns acknowledge and agree to adhere to this Code of Conduct throughout their internship.

ABROADER’s Approval