INHOPE is pleased to introduce its newly crafted “Guidelines on Gender and Non-discrimination Policies” aimed at supporting INHOPE member hotlines in cultivating an inclusive workplace environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.


The Guidelines provide recommendations on establishing rules and procedures to prohibit discrimination based on grounds such as gender, sexual orientation, beliefs, disability, race, nationality and ethnicity. Such rules and procedures should be integrated into all aspects of hotline operations, from published contents and interactions to all organisational endeavours. The Guidelines cover key topics to nurture an environment of equality and respect, including an inclusive hiring and recruitment process, non-discriminatory workplace policies, gender neutrality in hotline analysts’ roles, anti-harassment work environment, measures to handle grievances and implementing monitoring and evaluation measures. It is important to note that it is imperative for all INHOPE hotlines to have an official complaint mechanism in place, and each member hotline is required to implement the Guidelines on Complaints Mechanism as part of their INHOPE membership.

INHOPE strongly believes that fostering a positive and bias-free environment is crucial to the effective operation of hotlines. This commitment is developed in alignment with both international and regional law. By creating a workplace that is inclusive, diverse, and supportive of employees of all genders, hotlines can enhance productivity, stimulate creativity and innovation, and foster greater employee satisfaction and loyalty.


We would like to thank the Finish hotline Nettivihje, French hotline Point de Contact, Icelandic hotline Barnaheill, Slovenian hotline Spletnooko and the Spanish hotline INCIBE for sharing their experiences and recommendations for the creation of this Guideline.

Access the guidelines here.