We encourage publishers to adopt and abide by the following Code of Ethics when administering writing contests, and we recommend that the Code itself be included along with contest guidelines and a conflict-of-interest statement.
The Community of Literary Magazines and Presses believes that ethical contests serve our shared goal: to connect writers and readers by publishing exceptional writing. Intent to act ethically, clarity of guidelines, and transparency of process form the foundation of an ethical contest. To that end, we agree
- to conduct our contests as ethically as possible and to address any unethical behavior on the part of our readers, judges, or editors;
- to provide clear and specific contest guidelines—defining conflict of interest for all parties involved; and
- to make the mechanics of our selection process available to the public.
This Code recognizes that different contest models produce different results, but that each model can be run ethically. We have adopted this Code to reinforce our integrity and dedication as a publishing community and to ensure that our contests contribute to a vibrant literary heritage.
