Conflict of Interest Policy

Purpose and Scope
This Conflict of Interest Policy (“Policy”) is designed to safeguard the Gaza Palestinian-American Association (GPAA) from any potential conflicts of interest that might arise involving its directors, officers, and senior employees. The Policy ensures that all actions and decisions are conducted in the best interest of GPAA, adhering strictly to principles of fairness and integrity.

Definitions

  • Covered Persons: This includes GPAA Directors, Officers (such as the CEO, CFO, and Vice Presidents), Committee Members, Program and Department Directors, Regional and Country Office Directors, and any personnel with significant budgetary management responsibility.
  • Related Person: Refers to family members of a Covered Person, including spouse, ancestors, descendants, and siblings, as well as their spouses. It also includes any entity where a Covered Person, together with Related Persons, holds a significant ownership interest.
  • Interest: Any financial stake or potential for income that might conflict with the interests of GPAA, including ownership interests in entities, property, and expectations of income like salaries, consulting fees, rents, and royalties.

Policy Administration

  • Annual Disclosure: Each Covered Person must annually affirm their understanding of and compliance with this Policy by disclosing any potential conflicts of interest.
  • Board Oversight: The GPAA Board of Directors reviews all disclosed interests to determine any conflict with the interests of GPAA and decides on the appropriate course of action. This includes approving or disapproving involvement in activities or transactions that might be influenced by a personal interest.
  • Abstention: Covered Persons with a potential conflict must abstain from discussions and decision-making processes relating to the matter in which they have an interest.

Conflict Resolution

  • The Board reviews potential conflicts and determines whether the involved party’s interest may inhibit their ability to act impartially on behalf of GPAA.
  • If a conflict is deemed to exist, the involved individual will be asked to recuse themselves from related discussions and decision-making processes.

Policy Review and Updates

  • This Policy is reviewed periodically and may be updated to adapt to new challenges and opportunities faced by GPAA. All amendments will be communicated to Covered Persons, and necessary training or clarification will be provided to ensure understanding and compliance.

Legal Framework
This Policy is governed by the ethical standards and legal requirements applicable to nonprofit entities operating within the United States, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations.

Commitment to Transparency
GPAA is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and transparency in all its operations. This Policy is a testament to our commitment to ethical conduct and governance.