Both online and offline Bits of Freedom seeks to create an environment where experiences, opinions and ideas can be exchanged respectfully and constructively. That is why we will take action against any form of intimidation and discrimination.

Filing a report

Sometimes it is clear when a person oversteps the boundaries of what is acceptable behavior. Threats and physical or verbal violence are examples of unacceptable behavior that is easily recognizable. But too often people get away with unacceptable behavior because it is “borderline acceptable” or so common that we do not recognize it for what it is, or not right away.

We want to stress here that no one should settle for a situation in which they feel threatened, intimidated or belittled. We welcome all reports of inappropriate behavior, be it right there and then, the next day, or even a year after an incident. It is never too late to file a report of threats, bullying, racism, sexism, (sexual) harassment, violence and aggression. This goes both for incidents online (website, social media channels and mailing lists) and offline (at our office or at events).

Where and how

Addressing someone about their behavior is not always easy, or even possible. Depending on the behavior it might take more than just addressing them. Inappropriate behavior should have consequences. Are you the victim or a witness of intimidation, discrimination, aggression or other forms of unacceptable behavior? Contact us by email or by telephone. If you want, you can remain anonymous. Of course it is possible also to meet in person to discuss your report.

• Evelyn Austin (+31 6 2689 5124 / evelyn@bitsoffreedom.nl) is the executive director of Bits of Freedom.
• Rejo Zenger (+31 6 3964 2738 / rejo@bitsoffreedom.nl is policy advisor with Bits of Freedom.

We are well aware that reporting unacceptable behavior is not easy, but we will do everything to treat you with respect, and handle your report confidentially and carefully. Only if you agree, will we take action.

For staff and employees

Staff and volunteers can contact an external confidential counsellor appointed by Bits of Freedom. Your conversations with that counsellor are confidential, of course. You can find the contact details of the confidential counsellor in the personnel handbook.

Another option is to file an official complaint with an external complaints committee. Bits of Freedom has an agreement with the National Complaints Handlers Association. The complaints commission and the confidential counsellor will report to the board and the executive director of Bits of Freedom once a year about the number of conversations and/or complaints, the subjects discussed and any related themes, trends and signals, if these cannot be traced back to individual persons.

These house rules were updated most recently on February 5, 2026. Amended: Contact details of the confidential counselor were deleted, and a reference inserted. Previous amendments: November 17, 2023. Amended: Information added about the confidential counsellor and external complaints committee. September 16. Amended: Lonneke van der Velden was removed as a contact because she is no longer on the board of Bits of Freedom. Previous amendments: January 7, 2020. Amended: Former director Hans de Zwart was removed as a contact and was replaced by policy advisor Rejo Zenger; we have made clear that you may choose with whom you want to get in touch.