The 2025 ICF Code of Ethics: What’s Changed and Why It Matters

old typewriter, word "update" typed on piece of paper

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) just leveled up its Code of Ethics, making it broader, clearer, and stricter than ever. If you’re in the coaching world, here’s what you need to know.

1. Structure: More Sections, More Clarity

🔹 Then (2020): Five sections, with vague guidelines.

🔹 Now (2025): Six sections, with a new appendix defining key terms.

✅ NEW: "Commitments for All Within the ICF Ecosystem" – now applies to staff, volunteers, and leadership, not just coaches.

👉 Why it matters: Clearer structure = easier to follow.

2. Stronger Ethical Standards

🔹 Then: Generic rules on client agreements, confidentiality, and conduct.

🔹 Now: Five refined sections that clarify obligations.

✅ NEW:

Confidentiality & Legal Compliance – Now includes data privacy laws (GDPR, HIPAA) and AI ethics.
Professional Conduct & Conflicts of Interest – Must proactively disclose conflicts.

👉 Why it matters: Less gray area, more accountability.

3. DEI & AI: Ethics for the Modern Era

🔹 Then: No mention of diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) or AI in coaching.

🔹 Now:

✅ DEI Mandates – Recognizes systemic bias & power dynamics in coaching.

✅ AI & Tech Ethics – Coaches must ensure AI tools meet ethical/legal standards.

👉 Why it matters: The coaching industry catches up with real-world issues.

4. No More Loopholes: Accountability Is In

🔹 Then: Ethics violations were harder to enforce.

🔹 Now: ICF’s Independent Review Board has stronger enforcement over all members.

👉 Why it matters: No one in the ICF ecosystem can opt out of ethical accountability.

Bottom Line: The 2025 Code = More Clarity, More Accountability

✔️ Applies to more people

✔️ Defines clearer ethical expectations

✔️ Addresses DEI, AI, & data privacy

✔️ Enforces stronger accountability

👉 If you’re a coach, trainer, or part of ICF, it’s time to adapt.

On April 1, 2025 the updated ICF Code of Ethics takes effect. To help you navigate the revised Code, ICF is rolling out a suite of resources in the coming weeks, including an overview of key changes, a complimentary ethics course, a video series, case studies, translations, and Insights and Considerations for Ethics.