OXFIRST CONFERENCE – SPONSOR ETHICS & EDITORIAL CHARTER

The OxFirst conference (the “Conference”) is organised and invoiced by OxFirst Limited (“OxFirst”). This Sponsor Ethics & Editorial Charter (the “Charter”) summarises the ethical principles that apply to all sponsors and sponsor representatives under the OxFirst Conference Terms & Conditions (the “Terms”). If there is any inconsistency between this Charter and the Terms, the Terms prevail.

Capitalised terms not defined in this Charter have the meanings given in the Terms. In this Charter, “Sponsor” includes any sponsoring organisation and any entity paying via an intermediary, and “Representatives” includes employees, contractors, agents and guests attending or acting on the Sponsor’s behalf.

  1. What OxFirst stands for

OxFirst is designed to be an independent, high-quality forum for serious discussion. We want sponsors who share these core principles:

  • Respect for the rule of law and democratic institutions
  • Honest, evidence-based debate – not spin
  • Professional, respectful conduct towards all participants

We greatly value sponsor support, but we do not “sell” the agenda of the Conference.

  1. Editorial independence

To protect the integrity of the Conference:

  • The programme, topics, formats and titles are decided by OxFirst as organiser.
  • The choice of speakers, panellists and moderators is made by OxFirst.

We welcome sponsor suggestions, but:

  • there is no right of approval or veto over content or speakers; and
  • we may accept, adapt or decline suggestions at our sole discretion.

Wherever possible, we aim for a balanced range of legitimate perspectives. In some areas balance can be challenging in practice, but balance and fairness are our guiding principles.

Sponsor support does not imply editorial influence. If any session involves sponsor participation in a dedicated format, it will be clearly labelled and subject to OxFirst’s moderation standards.

  1. No hidden agendas

Sponsors must not use the Conference to:

  • Run a one-sided campaign disguised as neutral discussion
  • Apply improper pressure on judges, regulators, policymakers or public officials
  • Misrepresent facts or promote intentionally misleading narratives

Sponsorship of OxFirst does not equal endorsement by OxFirst of any sponsor’s products, views or conduct.

  1. Ethical and lawful funding

We only accept sponsorship from lawful, reputable sources. By sponsoring the Conference, you confirm that:

  • Your business activities and sponsorship funds comply with anti-bribery, anti-corruption, sanctions and anti-money-laundering laws.
  • Any payments (including those made via intermediaries such as law firms, agents or consultants) come from legitimate, transparent sources and are not intended to conceal the true origin or beneficial owner of the funds.
  • Your sponsorship is not intended to secure an improper advantage or to interfere with the independence of the Conference, its speakers or its participants.

We may ask reasonable questions and request information to satisfy compliance obligations (including basic due diligence). We may decline, suspend or discontinue sponsorship where we reasonably believe continuing would breach the law or seriously harm the integrity or reputation of the Conference.

  1. Conflicts of interest and transparency

We ask sponsors to:

  • Inform us of any material conflicts of interest directly relevant to Conference topics (for example, significant ongoing litigation or investigations closely related to a session theme).
  • Avoid presenting participation in a way that could mislead participants about role or interests.

This helps us design panels and formats that are transparent and credible for all involved.

  1. Conduct at the Conference

All Representatives are expected to:

  • Treat other participants, speakers, staff and venue personnel with respect and professionalism
  • Avoid harassing, discriminatory, intimidating or threatening behaviour
  • Respect the format, time limits and moderation of sessions

We reserve the right to refuse admission or ask any Delegate, speaker or Sponsor representative to leave if their behaviour seriously undermines these standards or the integrity of the Conference. In such cases, no refund will be payable except where required by law or expressly stated in the Sponsorship Order, and OxFirst may remove Sponsor branding from Conference materials where practicable.

Concerns can be raised with the OxFirst Conference Team at any time during the event.

  1. Public statements and use of OxFirst name/logo

Sponsors must not make public statements suggesting OxFirst endorsement, editorial approval, or influence over the programme.

Use of the OxFirst name and logos is permitted only as set out in the Terms (including clause 11.3) and strictly in accordance with any brand guidelines we provide. In particular:

  • Sponsors may use the OxFirst name and Conference logos solely to promote their sponsorship of the Conference, and only in the form(s) we make available.
  • Sponsors must not use OxFirst branding in a way that implies OxFirst has endorsed, approved, certified, or verified the Sponsor or the Sponsor’s products, services, positions, or conduct.
  • Any press release, public announcement, paid advertisement, or marketing campaign relating to the Conference that goes beyond a basic factual statement of participation and includes OxFirst branding or references OxFirst requires OxFirst’s prior written approval.
  • OxFirst may require corrections, re-wording, or removal of any Sponsor communications that we reasonably consider misleading, non-compliant with our brand guidelines, or damaging to the reputation or integrity of the Conference.

For the avoidance of doubt, where permitted by the Terms, a Sponsor may make basic factual statements that it is sponsoring or participating in the Conference, provided those statements are accurate and do not imply endorsement or editorial influence.

  1. Working together

We believe the best conferences are built with sponsors, not for them. We genuinely welcome:

  • Ideas for themes, questions and speakers
  • Feedback on how to improve quality and impact
  • Collaboration on ways to make the event more useful and insightful for everyone

Within the framework above, we see sponsors as valued partners in creating a serious, thoughtful and balanced forum.

This Charter is issued by OxFirst Limited as organiser and should be read alongside the Terms (as published on the OxFirst website). This Charter is governed by the laws of England & Wales, and the courts of England & Wales have jurisdiction (subject to any mandatory legal requirements).

Questions?
OxFirst Conference Team – info@oxfirst.com