Ethics/Ombuds

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AEA Professional Code of Conduct

The AEA holds that principles of professional conduct should guide economists and strives to promote these principles through its activities. The Code of Professional Conduct was adopted by the Association on April 20, 2018, to help guide economists in academia, government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. 

View the Code of Conduct


AEA Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation

The Association does not tolerate harassment, discrimination, or retaliation in any of its activities and seeks to create a professional environment with equal opportunity and fair treatment for all economists.

View the Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation

Disclosure Questionnaire for Officers, Editors, Committee Members, and Honorees

On April 26, 2019, the AEA Executive Committee adopted a disclosure questionnaire to be completed by all potential officers, editors, committee members, and honorees. The questionnaire includes inquiries about any past criminal convictions, current investigations, and potential violations of the Association's Code of Professional Conduct, among others. Answers are reviewed by the President and Secretary-Treasurer and shared with other members of the Executive Committee if necessary. Appointments are not official until the review is complete.

View the Disclosure Questionnaire

AEA Reporting Lockbox

The Reporting Lockbox, a separate resource from the Ombuds Team, enables members who want to report circumstances or conduct that may violate the AEA’s policy against harassment, discrimination, and retaliation but do not wish to file a formal complaint at this time.

Learn more about the reporting lockbox

AEA Formal Complaint Procedures

AEA members may file a formal complaint about another member, or about conduct in connection with an AEA-sponsored activity, if they believe the AEA Policy on Harassment, Discrimination, and Retaliation has been violated. 

Learn how to file a formal complaint   View formal complaint procedures

AEA Ombuds Team

Any AEA member who believes they have suffered or witnessed harassment, discrimination, or retaliation, or has another member concern, is encouraged to contact the Ombuds Team. 

Learn more about the Ombuds Team


AEA Best Practices for Economists

The guidelines presented here—on conducting research, serving as colleagues, working with students, and leading departments—aim to lay out actions that economists can and should take individually and collectively to bring about a more diverse, inclusive, and productive profession.

Read the Best Practices for Economists