Code of Conduct and Ethics for Amateur Radio Operators

Preamble

Amateur radio is more than a hobby—it is a global community built on curiosity, respect, and public service. Every licensed operator shares responsibility for preserving the integrity and spirit of amateur radio. This Code establishes the ethical foundation for operating practice, personal conduct, and service to others within the amateur radio community.

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1. Core Principles

1.1 Considerate

An amateur radio operator acts courteously and never knowingly interferes with the communications or enjoyment of others. Respect for shared spectrum is the foundation of good operating practice.

1.2 Responsible

The responsible operator:

• Complies fully with national and international regulations.
• Uses equipment and techniques that meet accepted technical standards.
• Exercises restraint and good judgment in all transmissions.

1.3 Progressive

The progressive operator:

• Strives to improve technical knowledge, station performance, and operating skill.
• Embraces new technologies and methods while preserving the traditions that sustain amateur radio.
• Shares experience and promotes continuous learning.

1.4 Helpful

The helpful operator:

• Offers assistance, support, and encouragement to others, especially newcomers.
• Freely shares knowledge, promotes safety, and fosters self-reliance.
• Helps maintain a cooperative and educational atmosphere on the air.

1.5 Friendly

The friendly operator:

• Demonstrates patience and understanding.
• Communicates with warmth and good humour.
• Builds goodwill across boundaries of geography, language, and culture.

1.6 Tolerant

The tolerant operator:

• Recognizes that others may hold different opinions or operating styles.
• Responds to disagreement or interference calmly, without hostility or insult.
• Practices empathy and inclusion in every interaction.

1.7 Balanced

The balanced operator:

• Keeps amateur radio in proper perspective among personal, family, professional, and community responsibilities.
• Recognizes that radio is a hobby and not a substitute for real-world obligations.

1.8 Loyal

The loyal operator:

• Supports the amateur community, local clubs, and national societies that represent amateur radio interests regionally and internationally.
• Acts to strengthen cooperation within the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) community.

1.9 Public-Spirited

The public-spirited operator:

• Offers knowledge, equipment, and skill in the service of community, public safety, and humanitarian needs.
• Supports emergency and disaster communication whenever possible.
• Acts with integrity and neutrality in public service roles.

1.10 Ethical

The ethical operator:

• Conducts all activities with honesty, fairness, and respect for others.
• Never deliberately transmits false information, causes harmful interference, or acts maliciously.
• Upholds the self-discipline and integrity that define the amateur radio tradition.

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2. Guiding Values

1. Respect: Every contact—on the air or in person—should demonstrate courtesy and mutual regard.
2. Politeness: Language and tone should reflect self-control and dignity; abusive or inflammatory speech has no place in amateur radio.
3. Self-discipline: Amateur radio is self-policing; each operator bears responsibility for maintaining order and goodwill on the bands.
4. Learning and mentorship: Share your knowledge, teach others, and welcome newcomers to the hobby.
5. Accountability: Recognize that your actions on the air reflect on all amateur radio operators.
6. Integrity in competition: Pursue operating awards and contests fairly and honestly; never falsify logs or use deception.
7. Environmental and safety awareness: Operate with respect for neighbours, communities, and the environment.

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3. Commitment to the Amateur Spirit

The amateur spirit embodies cooperation, curiosity, and service. It transcends nationality, language, and generation. To honour that spirit, each operator pledges to:

• Uphold the highest standards of conduct and ethics on the air and online.
• Serve as a positive example to others.
• Promote international friendship and understanding through radio communication.
• Continue learning, experimenting, and contributing to the advancement of radio art.

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4. Closing Statement

This Code is not a set of rules to restrict enjoyment but a framework that protects it. By following these principles, every amateur ensures that the bands remain a place of learning, goodwill, and public service for future generations.

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Adapted and unified from:

• The Radio Amateur’s Code (Paul M. Segal, W9EEA, 1928)
• Code of Ethics for Canadian Amateur Radio Operators (Bill Wilson, VE3NR)
• Ethics and Operating Procedures for the Radio Amateur, ITU Endorsed, 2010 Ethics and operating Procedures…

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