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.

Non-responsive Presenters

Individuals whose abstract submissions are accepted for presentation are required to confirm their participation and to maintain timely communication with conference organizers. Presenters are expected to attend their scheduled session or provide notice if circumstances arise that prevent participation as soon as they become aware. Failure to respond to repeated communication attempts, failure to confirm acceptance, or absence from a scheduled presentation without prior notice is considered a breach of professional conduct and may result in a sanction.

Presenters who do not fulfill these obligations may be prohibited from presenting at ERN-sponsored conferences for a period of two years. Exceptions will be made in cases of medical emergencies or other serious, documented circumstances beyond the presenter’s control. The intent of this policy is to support a respectful, dependable, and academically professional conference environment.

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.