As a representative of the MEF while officiating at any MEF Event, the official should be conscious of their role as an authority and of the associated obligation to have adequate knowledge of the principles of equestrian sport and the relevant MEF and FEI Rules and Regulations, and to apply them at all times in a fair and consistent way. MEF Officials must respect all MEF and FEI Rules and Regulations at all times, and in particular Article 6 and the FEI Code of Conduct for the Welfare of the Horse. Officials are responsible for taking all possible opportunities to educate themselves in the duties and responsibilities of officiating.

Responsibilities

While officiating at an MEF event, officials must:  

·      Act in an appropriate and respectful manner towards humans and animals, paying constant attention to their safety and carry out all duties in a professional manner.

·      Refrain from consuming alcohol, illegal substances and/or medications that would impair judgement.

·      Refrain from smoking whilst on the competition ground. Smoking in the stables is strictly prohibited.

·      Answer the questions of stakeholders (including but not limited to athletes, owners, coaches, organisers, grooms), taking the time to explain decisions objectively. In the event that an official is unable to answer a question, they should refer the question up the ladder. 

·      Be familiar with all the relevant FEI Rules and Regulations and Sport Rules, as well as MEF Rules and Regulations. Where the international rules differ from the national rules, the MEF rules will prevail.

·      Be fully prepared for an event and cooperate with the organiser of the event and with colleagues.

·      Be punctual and dress appropriately. Officials should be dressed smartly in breeches or long trousers, boots and a shirt with collar and sleeves. Sleeves may be long or short.

·      Not compete at an event at which they are officiating.  

Conflict of Interest 

An MEF Official must commit to avoiding any actual or perceived conflict of interest. A conflict of interest is defined as any personal, professional, or financial relationship, including relationships of family members that could influence or be perceived to influence objectivity when representing or conducting business or other dealings for or on behalf of the MEF.

·      Officials must maintain a neutral, independent and fair position towards athletes, owners, coaches, grooms, organisers, other officials and stakeholders. Financial and/or personal interests will never influence officiating duties.

·      Conflicts must be avoided whenever practicable. However, there may be instances where the MEF must balance conflicts of interest against proven expertise in order to achieve the optimal sporting result. 

·      On becoming aware of a potential Conflict of Interest, officials must undertake to promptly notify the MEF (or where the conflict only arises and/or is identified on-site, the President of the Ground Jury) of any possible conflicts of interest or circumstances that may be perceived as such. Where there is possible conflict of interest that is impossible to mitigate, at least one other official will be present to check decisions taken by that official.