WMS 2025 exhibitor and patient advocacy group (PAG) code of conduct

Thank you for supporting the 30^th annual international Congress of the World Muscle Society (WMS). We are committed to creating a professional, respectful, and inclusive environment for researchers and clinicians to learn, share ideas, and promote translational science. Our WMS values extend to all non-WMS members taking part in WMS Congress activities.

WMS membership values:

• educational (continually learning and providing education and guidance to the next generation of myologists through training, mentoring, championing, coaching and leading)
• scientific (driving scientific discoveries and innovation; making decisions based on scientific evidence rather than opinion or instinct)
• collaborative (a multidisciplinary community drawing learning from one another and working together towards a shared goal)
• inclusive (welcoming everyone, supporting one another, improving access for colleagues and patients)

This exhibitor and PAG code of conduct sits alongside the code of conduct for WMS members and the code of conduct for Congress delegates to help make sure the Congress is a welcoming and ethical space for everyone. It applies to all exhibiting organisations, including their representatives, contractors, and affiliates participating in WMS 2025.

Professional conduct

All those exhibiting in the exhibition area should maintain a professional and respectful approach at all times by:

• engaging with delegates, fellow exhibitors, PAGs, and WMS staff in a courteous and professional manner
• ensuring all promotional activities align with the scientific and educational nature of the WMS Congress
• avoiding aggressive sales tactics or any conduct that could be perceived as coercive

Respect and inclusion

The WMS promotes a diverse and inclusive environment. Exhibitors and exhibiting PAGs must:

• treat all Congress participants with dignity and respect, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, religion, age, ability, appearance or social background
• refrain from discriminatory or harassing behaviour, including unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments or any form of intimidation
• ensure that exhibit staff reflect and support an inclusive environment
• ensure that your exhibition booth/table is accessible to all, this means providing a suitable ramp for easy access to a raised booth, etc. If you are unsure about any aspect of making your booth or space accessible, please contact our Sponsorship and Exhibition Manager. 

Ethical marketing and scientific integrity

Exhibitors and exhibiting PAGs must adhere to ethical marketing practices and scientific integrity by:

• providing truthful, accurate, and evidence-based information about their products and services
• avoiding exaggerated or misleading claims in marketing materials
• respecting intellectual property rights and refraining from unauthorised use of copyrighted materials, trademarks, or proprietary content

Booth representation and conduct

Exhibitors and exhibiting PAGs must maintain a professional appearance and operation of their booths/tables by:

• ensuring booths comply with WMS and exhibition venue guidelines
• keeping audio-visual presentations at a reasonable volume to avoid disturbing neighbouring exhibitors and delegates
• wearing name badges visibly at all times. Badge swapping is prohibited, and we ask that all exhibitors and PAG representatives respect the ticket allocations provided in their chosen package
• ensuring giveaways and promotional activities align with WMS policies. No branded coffee cups/water cups may be used by exhibitors or PAGs
• refraining from serving alcohol at an exhibition booth or PAG table
• ensuring a scientific representative of your organisation is at your booth or PAG table during all exhibition open times

Compliance with venue and local regulations

Exhibitors and exhibiting PAGs must adhere to:

• the rules and regulations of the venue, the Austria Center Vienna
• any health, safety, and security guidelines in place during the event
• applicable laws and industry regulations regarding the promotion and distribution of medical and scientific products. Please see more about compliance here.

Online and social media conduct

Exhibitors or PAGs representing their organisations online or via social media must:

• communicate respectfully and professionally in any online interactions related to the Congress
• avoid spreading misinformation or making defamatory statements about other exhibitors, PAGs, delegates, or the WMS
• ensure digital promotional activities are ethical and compliant with the WMS guidelines provided by the WMS Communications Manager.

Reporting concerns

If an exhibitor witnesses or experiences any violations of this code of conduct, they are encouraged to report the matter through the WMS complaints procedure and provide details of the issue in this form. All reports will be handled confidentially and reviewed by independent consultants, E-volveHR.

Consequences of violations

The WMS reserves the right to take any necessary action in response to breaches of this code of conduct. Consequences may include:

• a formal warning to the exhibitor or PAG
• removal of offending individuals from the exhibition area
• revocation of exhibition privileges for future WMS events
• filing a report with relevant authorities if necessary

By exhibiting at the WMS 30^th Annual Congress, all exhibitors and exhibiting PAGs, agree to abide by this code of conduct and contribute to a positive, professional, and respectful environment for all participants.