Refund policy
When a payment can be refunded, transferred or credited, and how to ask.
- Effective date
- 27 September 2026
- Last updated
- 27 September 2026
Concise rules for programs, events, memberships and paid services.
1.Purpose and Scope#
This Policy applies to payments for VoDI programs, events, training, executive education, workshops, seminars, fellowships, memberships, publications and other paid services. Program-specific refund terms made available before payment may apply.
2.General Principles#
- Refunds are handled consistently and in good faith.
- A refund is not automatic unless this Policy, program terms or applicable law provides for it.
- Clearly disclosed non-refundable third-party costs may be deducted where permitted.
- Mandatory legal rights are not excluded or limited by this Policy.
3.Participant Cancellation#
| Cancellation timing | Refund | Possible alternative |
|---|---|---|
| 14+ calendar days before program | Up to 100%, less clearly disclosed non-refundable third-party charges | Transfer may be requested |
| 7–13 calendar days before | Up to 50%, less clearly disclosed non-refundable third-party charges | Transfer/credit may be offered |
| Less than 7 days | Generally non-refundable, subject to law or approved exception | Transfer/credit may be offered at VoDI’s discretion |
4.Non-Attendance and Exceptional Circumstances#
Non-attendance without cancellation normally does not create a refund entitlement. For exceptional circumstances, VoDI may consider a transfer, credit, partial refund or other reasonable solution.
5.VoDI Cancellation or Postponement#
If VoDI cancels a program or event, the participant may choose a full refund or transfer to the rescheduled date or, where reasonably available, a comparable VoDI program. If postponed, the participant may accept the new date or request a full refund within 14 calendar days after notice. Approved refunds will normally be processed within 14 working days after the required information is received.
6.Force Majeure#
Where events beyond VoDI’s reasonable control materially affect a program, VoDI will communicate the situation and, where feasible, offer rescheduling, transfer, credit or refund based on the circumstances, applicable law and third-party commitments.
7.Memberships and Other Services#
Membership fees are generally non-refundable once activated unless applicable terms or law provide otherwise. Cancellation normally prevents future renewal but does not create a refund for an unused current period. Advisory, consulting, customized training, research and other special services may have separate written terms.
8.Applications and Payment Errors#
Application fees are generally non-refundable after submission unless program terms or law provide otherwise. Duplicate, incorrect or excess payments may be corrected and refunded after verification.
9.Refund Requests and Processing#
Submit requests in writing to info@vodinstitute.org with sufficient payment/program details. VoDI will normally acknowledge or respond to a complete request within 10 working days. Approved refunds are normally processed within 14 working days and, where practicable, returned to the original payer/payment method. Bank or payment-provider timing may vary.
10.Non-Refundable Costs#
Third-party registration, payment-processing, visa, travel, accommodation, venue, supplier, customized-material or similar costs may be non-refundable where clearly disclosed before payment and permitted by law.
11.Review and Complaints#
If a participant disagrees with a refund decision, they may request a written review at info@vodinstitute.org. VoDI will normally provide a written response within 10 working days after receiving the information necessary for review.
12.Changes and Applicable Law#
The version in force and made available before payment normally applies to that transaction, subject to applicable law. Mandatory legal requirements prevail over conflicting provisions. This Policy is intended to be interpreted consistently with laws and regulatory requirements applicable to VoDI and the relevant transaction.
13.Contact#
Voice of Diplomacy Institute (VoDI)
Email: info@vodinstitute.org
Website: https://www.vodinstitute.org
Refund subject line: Refund Request – [Programme/Service Name]
Version: 1.1 | Effective: 27 September 2026
Write to info@vodinstitute.org or see the full list of ways to reach the Institute on the Contact page.

