# Code of Conduct

The Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of all members of the 174th Battle Group. It applies across all group platforms and activities: in-game, on Discord, on any other group tools, and on external platforms when a member is visibly representing the group. Membership is conditional on upholding these standards.

## Expected Behaviour

All members are expected to:

- Treat all members and non-members with respect at all times.
- Refrain from harassment, hate speech, and discrimination in any form.
- Follow the orders of ranking members during operations.
- Raise disputes through proper channels rather than through direct confrontation.
- Be honest with leadership and fellow members.

## Disciplinary Process

Discipline is handled on a case by case basis. There are no fixed tiers; the response is proportionate to the severity and context of the conduct in question.

- **Informal warning:** Any Rank 3 or above may issue an informal warning for minor conduct issues.
- **Formal warning:** A Rank 4 officer or department head may issue a formal warning for more serious or repeated issues.
- **Removal:** Removal from the group requires a vote of the Rank 5 council. A majority is required to pass.

Members subject to disciplinary action have the right to present their account of events before a decision is reached. Inactivity is not treated as a conduct issue and is governed separately.

## Grounds for Immediate Removal

The following offences result in immediate removal from the group without prior warning. The council may vote to make the removal permanent.

- Cheating or exploiting game mechanics.
- Doxxing or sharing personal information about another member without their consent.
- Hate speech or discrimination of any kind.
- Threatening or blackmailing members.

## Appeals

Any member who has received a formal warning or been removed from the group may appeal the decision to the full Rank 5 council. The council will review the appeal and reach a final decision by majority vote. Appeal decisions are binding.