The Army has issued a directive defining online misconduct that while primarily of interest to uniformed personnel also has implications for its civilian federal workforce.
The All Army Activities message, known in Army lingo as an ALARACT, states that online misconduct is “”the use of electronic communication to inflict harm. Examples include, but are not limited to: harassment, bullying, hazing, stalking, discrimination, retaliation, or any other types of misconduct that undermine dignity and respect.”
“Harassment, bullying, hazing, stalking, discrimination, retaliation, and any other type of misconduct that undermines dignity and respect are not consistent with Army Values and negatively impact command climate and readiness,” it adds. Facility commanders are to “reinforce a climate where current and future members of the Army team, including soldiers, Army civilians, contractors, and family members, understand that online misconduct is inconsistent with Army values.”
Soldiers who violate those standards may be subject to discipline under the Uniform Code of Military Justice while civilians could be disciplined under general civilian personnel policies, it adds.
The Army said it is working to build a reporting system for online-related incidents and disciplinary action taken in response.
