IGBK aims to be an open, welcoming institution committed to supporting exchange among artists worldwide and promoting cross-national understanding in the visual arts (see the IGBK Mission Statement).

We would like to take this opportunity to set forth principles for our shared coexistence.

We base our actions and activities on the principles of the following documents:

• The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR)
• General Act on Equal Treatment (AGG)
• and share the core values of UNESCO, in particular those of the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.

We see mutual respect and cultural diversity as a core value of an open and democratic society. Open discourse does not mean the acceptance of discrimination, abuse of power or exclusion.

We reject all forms of violence, exclusion and discrimination, particularly based on origin, religion or worldviews, sex or gender identity, disability, age, illness or social class. It includes racisim, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, sexism, queerphobia and ableism as well as personal attacks and derogatory language.

We do not tolerate harassment, abuse of power, or assaults of any kind in our interactions with one another, and take decisive action against it.

We work together to foster a culture of collaboration that creates a safe environment and facilitates direct communication and conflict resolution. The foundation of our collaborative work is mutual respect, trust and appreciation. We are constructive, solution-oriented and transparent and take responsibility for our actions.

IGBK is committed to making its services more inclusive and accessible, and to operating in an ecologically sustainable manner as an institution.

These principles apply to staff at the IGBK office, board members, and IGBK delegates, as well as invited participants, cooperation partners, and users of our services. They apply to all formats and services, including in-person events and online meetings.

We aim to foster a respectful and discrimination-free environment. Should inappropriate behavior or violations of the principles stated herein occur nonetheless, we reserve the right to respond with appropriate measures.
If discriminatory or inappropriate behavior is observed or experienced within the context of our work, we encourage you to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We will handle such matters with care and in consultation with those affected.

We view this text as a living document that can be questioned, revised, and expanded, particularly in regards to any remaining gaps.

(Resolution of the IGBK Executive Board Meeting, June 16, 2026)