Membership is open to academics from all disciplines at various levels, including those in part-time, full-time and casual roles as well as students in all degrees and courses in higher education institutions, subject to an appropriate verification process.
The ICOIA relies on contributions from members, who act as volunteers to advance the agenda pursued by the ICOIA.
Members should renew their membership on an annual basis. Members with no activity or those who do not comply with ICOIA policies and Code of Conduct (as discussed below) will not be able to renew their membership.
Members may terminate their membership at any time by giving ICOIA a written notice.
ICOIA’s membership may be terminated at any time if a member causes a loss to the ICOIA credibility, or if a member fails to comply with the principles as outlined in the ICOIA’s ‘Terms of Reference’ (ToR).
Members have a voice
The ICOIA members have the ultimate say when it comes to governing the ICOIA. Members assemble to consider and vote on policy and programs, nominate and elect the Executive Committee, ratify strategic collaboration with other organisations, and discuss an array of strategic matters.
Terms of Reference (ToR)
The ICOIA governance system regularly updates documents that provide a point ofreference for policies. The ICOIA’s ToR is a foundational document that reflects thepolicies and principles that shape and inform the ICOIA practices and procedures. All members can contribute to the ToR development and have access not only to all related documents but to online webinars and the ICOIA meetings related to updating the ToR document.
The ICOIA Meetings
Meetings bring together members to discuss topics of particular temporal or strategic interests. These meetings include the general meetings, cross-category international member meetings, regional meetings, and meetings of members and non-members or external entities. Meetings are an important space in which members can participate to network, share know-how, and discuss the future of the ICOIA.
Promotion through the ICOIA network
All members will be registered in the member directory. They receive an annual
membership badge through which they can promote their status on their own
communication materials.
“Academics at risk” support
The ICOIA ‘Academic at risk’ group will share information and offer possible support mechanisms to deal with any risks or problems that members might be prone to.
The ICOIA will act as an advocate for members and will provide them with education and mental support through webinars, gatherings and workshops.
The overarching responsibility of every member is to take an active role in the ICOIA through enthusiastic participation. This means: every member has the responsibility to maintain and strengthen connections between their sub-group communities and the broader ICOIA community.
A member should maintain an active connection between the regional, national and international ICOIA communities.
Every member is expected to participate in meetings, providing feedback, voting
procedures, matters of governance, events and initiatives, and must generally take an interest in taking part in activities related to ICOIA’s aims and objectives.
Members should pledge to adhere to the formal conditions of the ICOIA membership as defined in the membership application documents. These conditions are concerned with and are designed to make the ICOIA function as a cooperative, communicative organisation for the benefit of its members and advance the aims and objectives of the ICOIA.
Members should participate actively in contributing material, news, solutions, know-how and information to member’s discussion forums.
All members of the ICOIA shall be bound by this Code of Conduct.
Members have a right to:
Be treated fairly, equally and with respect by the ICOIA, various committees within ICOIA and other members.
Socialise in an environment free from all forms of harassment and discrimination.
Privacy and confidentiality concerning records, documentation and any other communication containing a member’s personal information, unless consent is otherwise provided.
Be informed and actively involved in all the ICOIA events and offerings.
Voice their opinions, requirements and suggestions to the Executive Committee.
Members must:
Treat other members fairly, equally and with respect and courtesy.
Behave responsibly and ensure they conduct in a manner which will not injure the reputation of the ICOIA.
Report any inappropriate behaviour of a member to the Executive Committee of the ICOIA for action and follow up.
Abide by the ICOIA Code of Conduct and uphold the principles outlined in the ToR of the ICOIA.
Notify the ICOIA’s Membership department of any changes to details.
Though members are free to exercise the right of freedom of speech on social media and events, they must not use ICOIA’s logo, brand or their membership in ICOIA to promote their personal opinions, views or beliefs.