• Terms and Conditions

Terms & Conditions for Membership

Swiss India Professional Network (SIPN)

Version 1.0 | Effective Date: 15 January 2026

1. Purpose and Scope

These Terms & Conditions (“T&Cs”) govern membership in the Swiss India Professional Network (“SIPN” or “the Network”). By applying for and maintaining membership, individuals and institutions agree to comply with these T&Cs, the SIPN Articles of Association, the Code of Conduct, and all policies issued by the Executive Committee (“EC”).

Membership in SIPN is voluntary and subject to approval by the EC.

2. Eligibility for Membership

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria defined in the Articles of Association, including:

  • Demonstrated bicultural experience, interest, or involvement in Swiss–Indian collaboration.
  • Engagement or willingness to engage in professional fields relevant to Swiss–Indian business, innovation, culture, or entrepreneurship.
  • Alignment with SIPN’s values: innovation, inclusivity, integrity, and cultural synergy.
  • Commitment to contributing to the Network through participation, knowledge sharing, mentorship, or collaboration.

SIPN may request additional information to assess eligibility. There is no automatic right to membership, and applications may be declined without substantiation.

3. Membership Categories

  • Individual Members
  • Institutional Members
  • Honorary Members (exempt from subscription fees)

The EC may introduce additional categories as needed.

4. Application and Admission Process

  1. Applicants must submit a complete membership application and professional profile.
  2. Membership becomes effective only after:
    • Approval by the Executive Committee
    • Payment of the applicable annual subscription fee (unless exempt)
  3. Institutional Members may designate or change their representative by written notice.
  4. Membership is personal or organizational and non-transferable.

5. Membership Subscriptions

  • Annual subscription fees are set by the EC and approved by the General Assembly.
  • Fees may differ by membership category.
  • Non-profit organizations and educational institutions may receive reduced or waived fees.
  • Honorary Members are exempt from fees.
  • All membership fees, donations, or contributions are non-refundable.

6. Rights of Members

Members in good standing have the right to:

  • Participate in SIPN events, programs, and activities.
  • Access SIPN’s knowledge hub and resources.
  • Vote at General Assemblies (one vote per member).
  • Submit agenda items for General Assemblies with 45 days’ notice.
  • Stand for election to the Executive Committee.
  • Join Working Groups unless restricted for specific reasons.

7. Duties and Obligations of Members

  • Pay membership subscriptions on time.
  • Comply with these T&Cs, the Articles of Association, and SIPN policies.
  • Support SIPN’s mission and values.
  • Participate actively in SIPN activities where possible.
  • Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive information.
  • Refrain from conduct that harms SIPN’s reputation or other members.
  • Not use SIPN’s name, logo, or branding without prior written approval.
  • Respect intellectual property rights and confidentiality agreements.

8. Code of Conduct

  • Respectful and professional behaviour toward all members.
  • Zero tolerance for harassment, discrimination, or unethical conduct.
  • Protection of confidential information.
  • Compliance with Swiss data protection law and, where applicable, GDPR.

Violations may result in disciplinary action, including suspension or termination.

9. Intellectual Property & Branding

  • All materials created by or for SIPN are SIPN’s intellectual property unless otherwise agreed.
  • Members may not use SIPN branding or materials for commercial purposes without written permission.

10. Termination of Membership

Membership may be terminated due to:

  • Misrepresentation or false claims
  • Written resignation
  • Non-payment of fees within 60 days
  • Death or dissolution
  • Decision of the Executive Committee
  • Resolution of the General Assembly (three-quarters majority)

11. Consequences of Termination

  • Payment of all outstanding fees
  • Settlement of financial obligations
  • Return of SIPN materials and confidential information

12. Data Protection

SIPN processes personal data in accordance with Swiss data protection law and GDPR where applicable. Data is used for administration, events, and communication and is not shared without authorization unless legally required.

13. Liability

  • SIPN liabilities are limited to its assets.
  • Members are not personally liable for SIPN obligations.
  • SIPN does not provide legal, tax, investment, or professional advice.

14. Amendments

SIPN may amend these Terms & Conditions. Continued membership constitutes acceptance of revised terms.

15. Dispute Resolution

Disputes shall be resolved through arbitration under the Swiss Rules of International Arbitration. The venue is Geneva, Switzerland, and proceedings are conducted in English.

16. Acceptance

By applying for membership, applicants confirm that they have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions.