Our Foundation: Safety & Respect
The International Eressos Women’s Festival is built on a foundation of inclusion, respect, and community care. Our guiding principle is simple:
Any behaviour that compromises another person’s sense of safety or wellbeing is not tolerated.
We maintain a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, intimidation, or disrespectful behaviour toward anyone, for any reason.
By attending the festival, you agree to uphold this Code of Conduct and contribute to creating a supportive, joyful, and women-centred environment.
1. Respect, Inclusion & Non-Discrimination
All participants—attendees, staff, volunteers, performers, and locals—must be treated with dignity and respect.
The festival is intended for women (cis and trans) and non-binary individuals whose identities and lived experiences align with women’s and queer-women’s communities. We do not tolerate discrimination based on:
- Gender or gender identity
- Sexual orientation
- Race or ethnicity
- Nationality
- Religion or belief
- Age
- Disability, physical or mental health
- Body type or appearance
Respect the diversity of our community and help us maintain a space where everyone feels seen and valued.
2. Harassment & Personal Boundaries
Harassment of any kind is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Verbal harassment, insults, or slurs
- Unwanted physical contact
- Sexual harassment or inappropriate comments
- Intimidation, threats, or coercion
- Persistent unwanted attention or boundary violations
Consent is mandatory. Always ask before touching, photographing, filming, or otherwise engaging with someone in a personal way. A “no” must be respected immediately and without argument.
3. Photography, Filming & Privacy
To protect the privacy of all participants—especially those for whom public visibility may pose personal or professional risks—you must follow these guidelines:
- Always ask for consent before photographing or filming anyone.
- Do not post images or videos online without permission from everyone identifiable in the image.
- Follow any venue-specific or event-specific photography restrictions.
- Do not photograph children without explicit permission from their parent or guardian.
Violations of privacy can result in removal from the event.
4. Responsible Behaviour
All attendees are expected to act responsibly and with consideration for others.
You must:
- Follow all instructions given by festival staff and volunteers.
- Respect event schedules, venue rules, and capacity limits.
- Avoid disruptive, aggressive, or unsafe behaviour.
- Respect the peaceful atmosphere of Skala Eressos and its residents.
- Follow Greek laws, including those relating to alcohol, drugs, and public safety.
Prohibited behaviours include:
- Possession or use of illegal substances
- Bringing dangerous items or weapons into festival venues
- Disruptive behaviour that jeopardises safety or enjoyment
- Damaging property, equipment, or venues
5. Environmental Responsibility
Skala Eressos is a beautiful and fragile environment. Please help us protect it:
- Dispose of waste responsibly.
- Use the designated blue recycling bins.
- Avoid littering, especially on the beach and in nature areas.
- Respect wildlife and natural surroundings.
- Conserve water where possible.
Together, we can keep Skala Eressos clean and sustainable.
6. Accessibility & Consideration for Others
Some venues and streets in Skala Eressos have uneven terrain and limited step-free access due to the village’s traditional layout. We strive to support participants with accessibility needs wherever possible.
Please be mindful of:
- Offering space to those who may need seating or easier access.
- Keeping pathways clear.
- Being patient in crowded areas.
Attendees needing specific accommodations are encouraged to contact us in advance at
contact@sapphowomen.org.
7. Children & Families
Children are welcome in Skala Eressos during the festival, but the programme is primarily designed for adults. Parents and guardians are responsible for supervising their children at all times.
Children should not be photographed without explicit permission from their parent or guardian.
8. Animals & Pets
Pets may be present in the village, but:
- Pets must be kept on a lead in public areas.
- Pets are not permitted in indoor venues and may be restricted at certain events.
- Owners must clean up after their pets.
- Owners are responsible for ensuring pets do not disturb other participants.
Please also follow local guidance on pets on the beach and in public spaces.
9. Reporting a Concern or Violation
If you experience or witness behaviour that violates this Code of Conduct:
- Notify festival staff or volunteers immediately.
- Visit or contact the Festival Office.
- In emergencies, call 112, the general emergency number in Greece.
All reports are taken seriously and handled with discretion wherever possible.
10. Consequences for Violations
Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in:
- Verbal or written warnings.
- Removal from festival events or venues.
- Revocation of wristbands without refund.
- Bans from future editions of the festival.
- Involvement of local authorities where necessary.
These measures exist to protect the wellbeing and safety of our community.
11. Agreement to the Code of Conduct
By attending the International Eressos Women’s Festival, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.
Your cooperation helps maintain a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment for everyone.