ERNC25 – Code of Conduct

The Esports Research Network Conference (ERNC25) is dedicated to creating an inclusive, professional, and harassment-free environment for scholars, industry professionals, and students worldwide. This Code of Conduct applies to all participants and encompasses all conference-related activities and platforms.

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to:

  • All official ERNC25 activities (talks, workshops, panels, networking, Q&A, etc.)
  • Conference communication platforms, including Discord and Twitch
  • Social media activity related to ERNC25 (e.g., conference hashtags, posts, or shared media)
  • Any use, distribution, or discussion of conference-related media

Expected Behavior

All participants are expected to:

  • Treat all attendees with respect, regardless of race, gender, sexuality, disability, nationality, religion, or other identity factors.
  • Encourage scholarly discussion and constructive feedback in a professional and welcoming tone.
  • Seek consent before capturing or sharing media (e.g., screenshots, videos) of presentations or individuals.
  • Avoid disrupting sessions or conversations in chat, voice, or video settings.
  • Use conference spaces and content responsibly, including proper attribution of work.
  • Handle disagreements constructively and refer concerns to moderators or staff when needed.

Prohibited Conduct

The following are strictly prohibited:

  • Harassment or discrimination of any kind
  • Trolling, spamming, or disruptive behavior in sessions, chats, or voice channels
  • Posting or linking to explicit, violent, or otherwise inappropriate content
  • Sharing media of others without consent, especially for harmful or mocking purposes
  • Unsolicited private messages, especially those of a harassing or invasive nature
  • Retaliation against anyone who reports a concern or cooperates in an investigation

Moderation Policy

To ensure safety and maintain professional standards, ERNC25 will enforce the following moderation policies on all platforms:

  • Moderators will monitor all active Discord channels and Twitch chats during conference sessions.
  • Messages or content that violate the Code of Conduct will be removed immediately.
  • Timeouts, mutes, or bans will be issued for disruptive participants, with or without warning depending on severity.
  • All moderation decisions are final during the event to ensure smooth operation.
  • If you witness inappropriate behavior, use the /report command in Discord or message a moderator privately.
  • Moderators will be clearly identified (e.g., with a “MOD” or “ERNC25 Staff” role/tag).

Platform-Specific Rules

Discord

  • Voice Channels: Join voice channels respectfully; do not interrupt or speak over others.
  • Text Channels: Stay on topic and avoid excessive emoji use, spam, or off-topic content.
  • Usernames and Avatars must be appropriate and free of offensive or suggestive material.
  • Direct Messaging (DM): Do not DM other participants unless they have given permission.
  • Screen Sharing and Audio: Only presenters or approved users may share screens or audio in public channels.

Twitch

  • Chat Behavior: Twitch chat will be moderated in real-time. Do not post links, all-caps messages, or repeat content excessively.
  • Emotes and Memes: Keep use respectful. Do not use emotes to mock or harass speakers or other viewers.
  • Usernames and Comments that violate the Code of Conduct will be banned immediately.
  • No Self-Promotion or advertising in chat unless explicitly allowed by moderators.

Reporting a Violation

To report inappropriate behavior:

  • Discord: Use /report or message a moderator directly.
  • Twitch: Use the “Report” option or message a channel moderator.
  • General Reports: Submit concerns via this anonymous form or email ernc25@esportsresearch.net.
  • Reports may be made during or after the event. Anonymous reporting is supported.

In serious cases, ERNC25 organizers may contact local law enforcement.

Consequences of Violations

Violations may result in:

  • Warnings (verbal or written)
  • Muting or banning from Discord/Twitch
  • Removal from the conference
  • Exclusion from ERNC25 content or proceedings
  • Reporting to employer or academic institution
  • Referral to law enforcement in severe cases

Anti-Retaliation Policy

ERNC25 prohibits retaliation against any participant who reports a violation or participates in an investigation. We will take all appropriate steps to protect and support those individuals.