The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is dedicated to ensuring equity, diversity, and inclusion, and one of its ethical principles is respect for the diversity, dignity, worth, and equality of all persons. IARC knows that diversity is what makes the Agency stronger, more innovative, and more creative.
The IARC/WHO Values Charter, adopted in 2019, refers to empathy, humanity, and respect for diversity and is in resonance with the WHO Values Charter, which places an emphasis on commitment to diversity, respect, and fair treatment.
Moreover, as part of the larger United Nations (UN) family, IARC adheres to the principles of equality and non-discrimination as part of the foundations of the UN Rule of Law, as well as to the International Civil Service Commission (ICSC) Standard of Conduct, which states that UN personnel shall fully respect the human rights, dignity, and worth of all persons and shall act with understanding, tolerance, sensitivity, and respect for diversity and without discrimination of any kind.
The IARC Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy is in line with the UN Disability Inclusion Strategy and the WHO initiative on Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The purpose of the Strategy is to lay the foundation for sustainable and transformative progress on equity and diversity.