Code of conduct

Based on our self-conception and values, our Code of Conduct summarises various rules of behaviour that we are committed to and that we expect all participants at Pop-Kultur to follow. It is constantly being developed on the basis of ongoing learning processes. All reports are taken seriously and responded to immediately and confidentially. No decisions on responding to the incident are made without the consent of the person who reported it.

Solidarity and responsibility – To create a respectful environment for everyone, we need to work individually and collectively to ensure that all visitors, partners, artists, guests, workers, and other participants can feel welcome and safe. In the spirit of solidarity, each of us has a responsibility to help shape this environment.

Recognising individual experiences and identities – We ask everyone to respect people’s different identities and experiences and diverse cultural perspectives. Remember that something that is not a problem for you may be stressful or triggering for others. Please recognise other perspectives, feelings, and experiences. Listen to other people and be sensitive towards their feelings.

Open and appreciative culture of discourse – A core element of our festival is an open and appreciative culture of discourse in which all participants can feel safe. Our programme includes a wide variety of experiences and perspectives on the world and our social coexistence. We see the resulting plurality of voices as a source of enrichment. As a cultural festival, Pop-Kultur aims to provide a space in which we can meet constructively and openly, even if we don’t agree on everything. We ask that different opinions be exchanged in a respectful manner.

Gender is not merely visual – Don’t assume a person’s gender based on their appearance alone. Remember that there are more than two genders. Ask about pronouns (he, she, they, none, etc.).

Language creates reality – We use gender-equitable and diversity-sensitive language. Please avoid generalisations and (discriminatory) stereotypes.

Obtain consent and maintain boundaries – All conversations and actions should be based on explicit consent. A lack of consent or a “maybe” does not count as a “yes”. Respect other people’s boundaries. Everyone has the right to decide when personal boundaries are crossed. Please also respect your own boundaries.

Photos and videos – If you want to take pictures or videos that show other people, always get their permission, especially if you want to share the images on social media.

Find help – If you need support, please contact our Awareness Team. If you see that someone else needs help, ask the person in question or let the Awareness Team know. Our staff can also help you.

Zero tolerance for discrimination and abusive behaviour – We do not tolerate any form of discrimination, violence or abusive behaviour, whether physical or verbal. We do not tolerate hatred, glorification of violence, defamation, intimidation, or threats, nor their trivialisation. In such cases, we reserve the right to exclude the person in question from the event.

Disruption of the event – In the spirit of our open culture of discourse, we ask you to refrain from disruptive behaviour. We reserve the right to reprimand or exclude disruptive behaviour from the event. If you feel subjected to unjust accusations or hostility, please contact us so that we can clarify the matter and settle it together.

We would also like to point out to all participants that there are legal regulations in both Germany and Berlin that prohibit certain symbols and expressions, which also apply to our event. Please contact us or the Awareness Team if you are unsure or need more information.