The internet is great for finding information and publicising your opinions and views but sadly there is a growing tendency for the intolerance of others' views and there are sustained attempts to abuse and intimidate individuals.

This issue was recently addressed at a conference: the 5th International forum on Online Dispute resolution in Liverpool, England (I didn't attend) The conference adopted a Respect Pledge for use with Information and Communication Technology (ICT). I have signed up to this pledge.

In short I pledge to:

• communicate online with respect
• listen carefully to others in order to understand their perspectives
• take responsibility for their words and actions
• keep criticism constructive
• respect diversity and be tolerant of differences

We embrace full and open communication and recognize the unique opportunity for expression in the online environment. We support freedom of speech and reject censorship. These principles are not intended to address what ideas can be expressed, but rather the tone with which communications take place.”

If you communicate online I encourage you to take the pledge at Respect Pledge. Thank you

 Look at About POLICOMM for more information regarding our 'code of conduct'

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