Version 1.0 – Effective July 2025
Applies to all programs, participants, facilitators, staff, volunteers, and attendees

 

1. PURPOSE

NextScene is a creative and inclusive space for children and youth aged 6 to 22 to explore, share, and express themselves through film. This Code of Conduct outlines the behavior and values expected from everyone involved in the festival. It ensures the safety, dignity, and freedom of expression of all participants — especially minors.

2. CORE VALUES

We are committed to creating a safe and respectful environment by upholding these principles:

• Respect for all individuals, regardless of age, background, identity, or ability
• Protection from physical, emotional, and sexual harm
• Freedom of expression guided by mutual responsibility
• Accountability, both online and in-person

3. WHO IS COVERED

This Code applies to:

• Festival staff and core organizing team
• Workshop facilitators, mentors, and guest speakers
• Volunteers and collaborators
• Youth participants and filmmakers
• Public audiences and visiting guests
• Vendors, media, and partners

4. GENERAL CONDUCT

All individuals involved in the festival must:

• Treat everyone with respect, empathy, and professionalism
• Use inclusive, non-discriminatory, and age-appropriate language
• Dress appropriately for a public and youth-centered environment
• Avoid disruptive, intimidating, or aggressive behavior
• Not consume or carry alcohol in any festival zones

5. SAFEGUARDING YOUTH

To ensure the safety and well-being of minors:

• Adults must never be alone with a child without another adult present (two-person rule)
• Do not request or share private contact information with under-18 participants
• Photos or videos of minors may only be taken with written consent from a parent or legal guardian
• Interactions with children and youth must always be respectful and non-invasive

6. SEXUAL SAFETY & MISCONDUCT

The festival enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual misconduct, including:

• Sexual comments, jokes, or gestures
• Unwanted or inappropriate physical contact
• Flirting, grooming, or suggestive behavior directed at minors
• Sharing or exposing participants to explicit or inappropriate content

Anyone who violates these standards may be immediately removed from the event and, if necessary, reported to relevant legal authorities.

7. DIGITAL CONDUCT

Online and digital interactions must follow the same safeguarding standards:

• Do not send private messages to youth participants
• Only use official, moderated channels for festival-related communication
• Do not share sensitive or explicit content in any form
• Respect privacy and obtain consent before capturing or sharing participant content online

8. INCLUSIVITY

We welcome everyone to participate and contribute to the festival community. Discrimination of any kind will not be tolerated. This includes:

• Gender identity and expression
• Sexual orientation
• Religion, language, or ethnicity
• Disability, neurodiversity, or other personal traits

Everyone has the right to be respected and heard.

9. YOUNG ADULT PARTICIPANTS (AGES 18–22)

Young adults aged 18–22 often join as volunteers, facilitators, or advanced participants. They are expected to:

• Model respectful and inclusive behavior
• Support a safe environment for younger peers
• Follow the same rules and responsibilities as all adults

10. INFANTS & FAMILIES

Children under 6 may attend public events when accompanied by a responsible adult.

• Guardians are fully responsible for their children’s supervision
• The festival does not provide childcare or nursing rooms
• In film screenings or quiet zones, guardians may be asked to exit temporarily if disruption occurs

11. TYPES OF VIOLATIONS

Severity	Example Violations	Potential Actions
Minor	Inappropriate language, unintended disruption	Verbal reminder or written warning
Moderate	Repeated boundary violations, rule defiance	Removal from session or area
Severe	Harassment, abuse, sexual or physical misconduct	Removal from festival, ban, legal escalation

12. REPORTING A CONCERN

If you feel unsafe or witness inappropriate behavior, you can report confidentially through:

• On-site Safeguarding Desk (near Info Booth)
• Email: nextscenefestival.id@gmail.com

All reports will be reviewed by the Festival Officer with discretion and fairness.

13. INCIDENT RESPONSE

• The Festival Officer will assess the situation promptly
• All involved parties will have the opportunity to share their side
• Appropriate action will be taken based on severity
• Documentation will be kept confidential and secure
• Legal authorities will be contacted if the case involves criminal behavior

14. POLICY AGREEMENT & REVIEW

This Code is reviewed annually and updated as needed.

By attending or contributing, all individuals agree to follow the standards outlined in this document