AC Global Code vs ICF Code of Ethics
| Category | AC Global Code of Ethics | ICF Code of Ethics | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminology | Defines terms like "clients" and "practicing members." | Does not explicitly define terms but includes "ICF Professionals" and "ICF Ecosystem." | Different scope of terminology, though related. |
| Working with Clients / Agreements | Guidelines on contracts, confidentiality, and setting boundaries. | Emphasizes agreements, sponsor involvement, and client’s right to terminate. | Similar, both stress transparency and proper agreements. |
| Professional Conduct | Covers behaviour, integrity, and communication under "Professional Conduct." | Focuses on "Professional Conduct and Conflicts of Interest," with stronger conflict management. | Both discuss professionalism; ICF adds more emphasis on conflicts. |
| Integrity & Accountability | Describes ethical behaviour and accountability. | Emphasizes "Professional Integrity and Accountability," including compliance and biases. | Both focus on integrity and honesty in practice. |
| Confidentiality | Outlines confidentiality agreements and legal limits. | Strong emphasis on confidentiality, with legal exceptions. | Direct match in principles. |
| Inappropriate Interactions | Strictly prohibits romantic/sexual relationships with clients or sponsors. | Prohibits such relationships but focuses more on professional boundaries. | Both prohibit romantic relationships; ICF emphasizes boundaries more. |
| Conflict of Interest | Manages conflicts to avoid exploitation. | Addresses conflicts in coaching and sponsor relationships. | Very similar approach. |
| Ending Professional Relationships | Discusses ending relationships based on client needs and agreements. | Focuses on mutual agreement for termination. | Both address termination similarly. |
| Ongoing Responsibilities | Requires supervision and maintaining professional competence. | Stresses continuing education and professional development. | Both emphasize continuous improvement and support. |
Download Resources
📄 AC Global Code of Ethics (PDF)
📄 ICF Code of Ethics 2025 (PDF)
Conclusion:
Both the AC Global Code and ICF Code of Ethics share core ethical principles, including professionalism, confidentiality, integrity, and conflict management. Key differences lie in scope and emphasis—ICF includes stronger focus on sponsor-related conflicts, biases, and boundary maintenance, while AC Global provides more explicit terminology definitions.