This Ethics Violation Procedure outlines a fair and transparent process for handling reports of ethics violations of current AIGGs, who have pledged to adhere to both the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Code of Professional Ethics and the Investigative Genetic Genealogy Professional Standards.
While IGGAB does not actively monitor AIGGs for potential ethics violations, it responds to reports of alleged ethics violations of current AIGGs. All complaints received by the Ethics Committee are reviewed in a timely manner and appropriate actions are taken.
While IGGAB does not actively monitor AIGGs for potential ethics violations, it responds to reports of alleged ethics violations of current AIGGs. All complaints received by the Ethics Committee are reviewed in a timely manner and appropriate actions are taken.
Ethics Committee
The Ethics Committee has the following responsibilities:
- Review and investigate reports of ethics violations
- Ensure a fair process for the complainant and the respondent
- Determine disciplinary actions, if appropriate
- Maintain confidentiality and impartiality
- Make recommendations, if appropriate, to impacted organizations or companies to safeguard or remediate issues related to the complaint.
The Ethics Committee comprises three AIGGs (plus one alternate), who have volunteered and are approved by a vote of the Board. Ethics Committee members shall serve for no longer than two consecutive one-year terms, as long as their accreditation is in good standing.
Reporting an Ethics Violation
Ethics violations by current AIGGs should be self-reported to the Ethics Committee. However, if an AIGG fails to report their own violation to the Ethics Committee, the Ethics Violation Procedure outlines the process for reporting any such violation.
Any AIGG, Investigating Agency or a representative of the database where a violation took place, may submit a written complaint regarding an ethics violation of the current AIGG. The written complaint must include:
Other non-anonymous complainants will be considered if sufficient evidence has been provided.
After a complainant becomes aware of the alleged ethics violation, they should report as soon as possible (and immediately if there is risk to an ongoing case) by email to the Ethics Committee Chair at [email protected]. Any ethics violations must be reported within 6 months from when the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. The Ethics Committee only considers complaints if the alleged violation took place after the AIGG became accredited.
Any AIGG, Investigating Agency or a representative of the database where a violation took place, may submit a written complaint regarding an ethics violation of the current AIGG. The written complaint must include:
- The name of the AIGG against whom the complaint is made
- A detailed description of the alleged ethics violation
- Supporting evidence
- The complainant’s contact details
Other non-anonymous complainants will be considered if sufficient evidence has been provided.
After a complainant becomes aware of the alleged ethics violation, they should report as soon as possible (and immediately if there is risk to an ongoing case) by email to the Ethics Committee Chair at [email protected]. Any ethics violations must be reported within 6 months from when the complainant becomes aware of the alleged violation. The Ethics Committee only considers complaints if the alleged violation took place after the AIGG became accredited.
Review and Investigation
After a complaint has been submitted, the Ethics Committee will conduct an initial assessment to determine if the complaint is within the scope of the IGGAB’s ethical guidelines (and if the violation has not already been reported). If the complaint is deemed valid, the AIGG against whom the complaint was made will be notified.
If further investigation is warranted, the Ethics Committee will gather additional evidence, including statements if necessary, and provide both the complainant and respondent an opportunity to present their case.
If further investigation is warranted, the Ethics Committee will gather additional evidence, including statements if necessary, and provide both the complainant and respondent an opportunity to present their case.
Resolution and Disciplinary Actions
After reviewing all evidence, the Ethics Committee will determine the resolution, which may range from a dismissal of the complaint, a formal warning, remedial actions, a temporary suspension or revocation of accreditation. The Ethics Committee has discretion in sanctions and it makes decisions according to the clear and convincing standard of proof. Decisions will be communicated in writing to all parties involved, and strict confidentiality and neutrality will be maintained throughout the process.
Appeals process
If an AIGG or complainant disagrees with the decision made by the Ethics Committee, they have the right to submit a formal appeal to the Board of Directors within 30 days. The Board will then conduct an independent review and issue a decision within 60 days, unless an extension is required. This decision is final, and no further appeals are possible.
Confidentiality and records
All ethics complaints and investigations are confidential. Records are maintained securely for 5 years, or for the duration of disciplinary action taken, whichever is longer. This is necessary for identifying repeated misconduct as well as for a periodic review of ethical standards and procedures.
Procedural review
The Ethics Violation Procedure is reviewed annually by the Ethics Committee to assess its fairness and efficiency. Amendments may be made as necessary.
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