2026 Code of Conduct
ICML Code of Conduct The open exchange of ideas, the freedom of thought and expression, and respectful scientific debate are central to the goals of this conference on machine learning; this requires a community and an environment that recognizes and respects the inherent worth of every person. Who. All participants---attendees, organizers, reviewers, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers at our conference, workshops, and conference-sponsored social events---are required to agree with this code of conduct both during the event and on official communication channels, including social media. Organizers will enforce this code, and we expect cooperation from all participants to help ensure a safe and productive environment for everybody. Scope. The conference commits itself to providing an experience for all participants that is free from harassment, bullying, discrimination, and retaliation for all participants. This includes offensive comments related to gender, gender identity and expression, age, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, ethnicity, religion (or lack thereof), politics, technology choices, or any other personal characteristics. Bullying, intimidation, personal attacks, harassment, sustained disruption of talks or other events, and behavior that interferes with another's full participation will not be tolerated. This includes sexual harassment, stalking, following, harassing photography or recording, inappropriate physical contact, unwelcome sexual attention, public vulgar exchanges, and diminutive characterizations, which are all unwelcome in this community. This Code of Conduct applies to the actual meeting sites and conference venues where ICML business is being conducted, including both physical and official virtual engagement platforms, including video, virtual streaming, and chat-based interaction. ICML is not responsible for non-sponsored activity or behavior that may occur at non-sponsored locations such as hotels, restaurants, or locations not otherwise a sanctioned space for ICML sponsored events (including virtual spaces). ICML will not actively monitor social media platforms, but will follow up on issues of harassment and violations of the code of conduct that occur on those platforms that are specifically related to the ICML program, during the course of ICML, if and when they are brought to our attention. Sponsors are equally subject to this Code of Conduct. In particular, sponsors should not use images, activities, or other materials that are of a sexual, racial, or otherwise offensive nature. Booth staff (including volunteers) should not use sexualized clothing/uniforms/costumes, or otherwise create a sexualized environment. This code applies both to official sponsors as well as any organization that uses the conference name as branding as part of its activities at or around the conference. Outcomes. Participants asked by any member of the community to stop any such behavior are expected to comply immediately. If a participant engages in such behavior, the conference organizers may take any action they deem appropriate, including: a formal or informal warning to the offender, expulsion from the conference with no refund, barring from participation in future conferences or their organization, reporting the incident to the offender’s local institution or funding agencies, or reporting the incident to local law enforcement. A response of "just joking" will not be accepted; behavior can be harassing without an intent to offend. If action is taken, an appeals process will be made available . Reporting. If you have concerns related to your inclusion at that conference, or observe someone else's difficulties, or have any other concerns related to inclusion, please contact the Inclusion & Accessibility co-chairs or the Conference HR Liaison . The Inclusion & Accessibility co-chairs can be reached by email at inclusion-accessibility-chairs@icml.cc . The HR Liaison can be reached via the ICML hotline at either ICMLhotline@gmail.com or 858-208-3810 . Conference volunteers will also have this contact information and can assist with connecting you to the co-chairs or the HR Liaison . Complaints and violations will be handled at the discretion of the Inclusion & Accessibility co-chairs, general chair, HR Liaison, and the conference board. Reports made during the conference will be responded to in less than 24 hours; those at other times in less than two weeks. We are prepared and eager to help participants contact relevant help services, to escort them to a safe location, or to otherwise assist those experiencing harassment to feel safe for the duration of the conference. We gratefully accept feedback from the community on policy and actions; please contact us. Updated December 14 , 2025. Successful Page Load ICML uses cookies for essential functions only. We do not sell your personal information. Our Privacy Policy » Accept
Executive Summary
The ICML Code of Conduct for 2026 outlines the conference's commitment to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all participants. It emphasizes the importance of open exchange of ideas, freedom of thought, and respectful scientific debate. The code applies to all attendees, organizers, reviewers, speakers, sponsors, and volunteers, both during the event and on official communication channels. It prohibits harassment, bullying, discrimination, and retaliation based on various personal characteristics. The code also extends to virtual engagement platforms and sponsored activities, with clear guidelines for sponsors and booth staff. Participants are expected to comply with the code, and organizers will enforce it to ensure a safe and productive environment.
Key Points
- ▸ Commitment to inclusivity and respectful scientific debate
- ▸ Application to all participants and official communication channels
- ▸ Prohibition of harassment, bullying, discrimination, and retaliation
- ▸ Guidelines for sponsors and booth staff
- ▸ Enforcement by organizers to ensure a safe and productive environment
Merits
Comprehensive Scope
The code covers a wide range of personal characteristics and behaviors, ensuring a broad and inclusive approach to maintaining a respectful environment.
Clear Guidelines for Sponsors
The code provides specific guidelines for sponsors, which helps in maintaining a professional and respectful atmosphere at sponsored activities.
Enforcement Mechanism
The code includes a clear enforcement mechanism, which is crucial for ensuring compliance and addressing violations effectively.
Demerits
Limited Scope of Responsibility
The code does not cover non-sponsored activities or locations, which may leave participants vulnerable to harassment or discrimination in those settings.
Passive Monitoring of Social Media
The code states that ICML will not actively monitor social media platforms, which may delay the identification and resolution of issues related to harassment and violations of the code.
Expert Commentary
The ICML Code of Conduct for 2026 represents a significant step towards fostering an inclusive and respectful environment in academic conferences. By explicitly outlining the expected behaviors and providing clear guidelines for sponsors and booth staff, the code aims to create a safe space for all participants. The emphasis on enforcement is particularly noteworthy, as it underscores the conference's commitment to addressing violations promptly and effectively. However, the limited scope of responsibility and passive monitoring of social media platforms may pose challenges in ensuring comprehensive protection for participants. The code's alignment with broader issues of inclusivity and diversity in scientific communities highlights its relevance and potential impact beyond the ICML conference. As academic conferences continue to evolve, the adoption and enforcement of such codes of conduct will be crucial in promoting a more equitable and respectful environment for all participants.
Recommendations
- ✓ Expand the scope of responsibility to include non-sponsored activities and locations, ensuring comprehensive protection for all participants.
- ✓ Implement active monitoring of social media platforms to promptly identify and address issues related to harassment and violations of the code.