Code of Conduct

The Darmstadt Summer Course is organized by the International Music Institute Darmstadt (IMD). IMD is a cultural institute of the City of Darmstadt and is thus fully committed to democratic values as fundamental principles of our actions. For us, democracy means not only adhering to the principles of the rule of law, but also promoting social cohesion based on respect, tolerance, solidarity and inclusion. Through our work, we are committed to strengthening democratic values – including freedom of art and expression – and enabling social participation.

Many different people join the Darmstadt Summer Course. We want everyone to feel safe and comfortable and have developed a Code of Conduct. It describes the forms of behaviour we identify with and what we consider intolerable. The Code of Conduct serves as a reference for all those involved in the Darmstadt Summer Course (team, tutors, guest artists and participants) for their own behaviour.

Please read this Code of Conduct carefully. As this text is the result of an ongoing process, we are grateful for any comments, questions, or suggestions for improvement. These can be sent by e-mail to awareness@darmstaedter-ferienkurse.de.

How we interact with each other:

Our interaction is open and respectful. We address conflicts and try to solve them together. Constructive criticism is welcome.

We meet each other at eye level and attentively listen.

What we do not tolerate:

We do not tolerate any form of sexism, racism and discrimination, harassment, intimidation, hate speech or other forms of violence. This applies to all areas: classes, concerts, venues and all performance spaces.

Discrimination: This includes – but is not limited to – discrimination based on:

• Nationality, ethnic origin or language
• Legal status
• Gender or sexual orientation
• Religion or worldview
• Political opinion
• Physical appearance, disability, health condition or age
• Social background, family and educational status, financial or professional status

Harassment/Intimidation: This includes, among others:

• Stalking
• Inappropriate comments
• Unwanted touching
• Inappropriate photographing or filming
• Unwanted sexual advances

We do not tolerate verbal or physical violence – this includes staring and catcalling (i.e., sexually transgressive shouting, talking, whistling).

What happens when there’s a problem?

• You can contact the Awareness Team in person during the festival or call: +49 160 94 964 388. We are available from 9 AM to 11 PM.
• You can also send an e-mail at any time: awareness@darmstaedter-ferienkurse.de
• The Awareness Team will immediately take action in cases of harassment, aggression or intimidation. All reports are taken seriously and treated confidentially. The needs of the affected person(s) are central. We will only act with their consent, unless others are at risk.
• When we learn about or are informed of discriminatory or other illegal incidents, we will investigate them. In cases of violation, we reserve the right to impose sanctions within our legal possibilities.

What we hope to achieve:

We want a supportive and caring environment:

• Respect others’ boundaries. Important: The affected person decides what comprises a boundary violation. We believe without question in the experience of affected persons.
• We don‘t question gender identity. Accept other people’s pronouns or avoid using gender-specific forms of address.
• No always means no, and only a clear yes means yes.
• Take care of yourself and others.
• We ally ourselves: don’t look away when someone needs help.
• If you don’t know how to handle a situation, ask the Awareness Team or a team member of the Darmstadt Summer Course for help.

We would also like to notify all participants and visitors of legal regulations – in both Germany and Darmstadt (Hesse) – that prohibit certain symbols and expressions and therefore also apply to our events. Please contact the Awareness Team if you are unsure or need more information.

15 July 2025