Amateur Radio Code of Conduct

Amateur Radio Code of Conduct

Basic principles that should govern our code of conduct on the ham bands are:

  • SOCIAL FEELING, FEELING OF BROTHERHOOD/SISTERHOOD, BROTHERLY/SISTERLY SPIRIT: large numbers of us are all playing radio on the same airwaves (our playing field). We are never alone. All other hams are our colleagues, our brothers and sisters, our friends. Act accordingly. Always be considerate.
  • TOLERANCE: not all hams necessarily share your opinions, and your opinions may also not be the best ones. Understand there are other people with different opinions on a given subject. Be tolerant. This world is not for you exclusively.
  • POLITENESS: never use rude language or abusive words on the bands. Such behaviour says nothing about the person it is addressed to, but a lot about the person behaving that way. Keep yourself under control at all times.
  • COMPREHENSION: please understand that not everyone is as smart, as professional or as much an expert as you. If you want to do something about it, act positively (how can I help, how can I correct, how can I teach) rather than negatively (cursing, insulting etc.).

Radio Amateurs are:

  • CONSIDERATE... They never knowingly operate in such a way as to lessen the pleasure of others.
  • LOYAL... They offer loyalty, encouragement and support to other amateurs, local clubs, the IARU Radio Society in their country, through which Amateur Radio in their country is represented nationally and internationally.
  • PROGRESSIVE... They keep their station up to date. It is well-built and efficient. Their operating practice is above reproach.
  • FRIENDLY... They operate slowly and patiently when requested; offers friendly advice and counsel to the beginner; kind assistance, cooperation and consideration for the interests of others. These are the marks of the amateur spirit.
  • BALANCED... Radio is a hobby, never interfering with duties owed to family, job, school or community.
  • PATRIOTIC... Their station and skills are always ready for service to country and community.

For more please read: Ethics and operation procedures for the Radio Amateurs (Edition 3, 2010)