The 2023 Guidelines authorize ‘Procedural Rreviews’ of CPO cases that have been adjudicated for the purpose of examining whether they were handled in accordance with the established Child Protection Office (CPO) Guidelines. A ‘Procedural Review’ is, by definition, limited in scope: it does not revisit the substantive merits of an adjudicated case but instead evaluates compliance with established CPO procedures.

“There is no further process of appeal unless there is clear and convincing evidence of a substantial failure to follow these guidelines and/or a lack of fairness in the proceedings which would constitute a gross miscarriage of justice. Allegations of a failure to follow these guidelines and/or a gross miscarriage of justice shall be decided by the ICPO Oversight Committee. The ICPO Oversight Committee’s review shall be limited to procedural matters.” CPO Guidelines 2023

Accordingly, CPOC is authorized to review matters for procedural compliance and to make recommendations to the GBC Executive Committee. The Interim ICPO Director—during this transitional period—or, in the future, the respective Regional Director, issues a decision taking into account CPOC’s recommendation.

Recently, CPOC conducted its first ‘Procedural Review’ and submitted a recommendation to the GBC Executive Committee. After careful examination, it was determined that the matter had been handled outside the scope of the CPO Guidelines. It was concluded that this was never a CPO case to begin with and should not have been processed as one. Following this finding, the GBC EC, with the consent of the General Counsel, authorized the Interim CPO Director to issue a decision consistent with CPOC’s recommendation.

This development highlights the importance of maintaining procedural fairness, objectivity, and confidentiality in all child protection matters. A failure to adhere to these principles not only jeopardizes the safety of children but also places ISKCON as an institution at legal and reputational risk. Devotees whose rights are violated within ISKCON have the option to pursue remedies in secular courts and, in some instances, have already done so.

CPOC encourages all leaders to be mindful of these concerns and to reach out whenever questions arise regarding cases reviewed by CPOC. While confidential case details cannot be shared with members of the congregation, ISKCON leaders may contact CPOC directly and confidentially for clarification or guidance.

Upholding the established principles of child protection is essential to ensure that children are genuinely safeguarded through a coherent system built on predictability, documentation, and enforceable standards – principles that preserve both their safety and our integrity as a community.