MODULE CONTENTS
This module highlights the fight against corruption as a fundamental pillar of business ethics. It explores the different forms of corruption, such as bribery and embezzlement, and explains how these practices undermine competition and business integrity. The module also introduces the main international anti-corruption legislation, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), the UK Bribery Act and the Loi Sapin II, as well as companies' internal policies for preventing and detecting corruption, including whistleblowing systems and internal audits.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Understand the different forms of corruption and their impact on business Understand the main international anti-corruption laws and their scope Know how to implement internal anti-corruption policies, such as codes of conduct and whistle-blowing systems. Understand the role of audits and technology in detecting and preventing corruption Promote an ethical corporate culture that fosters integrity and transparency
Anti-Corruption Laws in Business Ethics
Corruption is a scourge affecting the global economy, undermining the foundations of fair competition and hindering economic development. Defined as the abuse of power for personal gain, corruption encompasses dishonest practices such as bribery, fraud and influence peddling. It undermines public trust in institutions, particularly in the business world, and poses a threat to sustainable business practices.
International anti-corruption legislation, such as the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) in the USA, the UK Bribery Act in the UK and the Loi Sapin II in France, has been put in place to effectively combat these practices. These laws require companies to adopt proactive measures to prevent corruption, including implementing risk management systems, conducting regular internal audits, and developing clear ethics policies.
A company's anti-corruption policy is based on a clear code of conduct, which guides employee behavior and creates a working environment based on integrity and honesty. In addition, professional whistle-blowing systems enable employees to anonymously report suspicious behavior, reinforcing transparency and accountability within the company.
Companies are also creating ethics committees or ethics referents to monitor compliance with practices, while organizing regular training to make employees aware of the risks of corruption and teach them how to avoid them.
The introduction of advanced technologies, such as data analysis and transaction traceability, plays a key role in improving transparency and detecting fraudulent practices. In addition, international collaboration between countries and organizations is strengthening the fight against corruption, underlining the need for collective action to combat this cross-border problem.
An ethical corporate culture, driven by management commitment, is essential to preventing corruption. Clear and open communication, as well as individual and collective accountability, foster a climate of trust and integrity within the organization.
Monitoring and evaluation of anti-corruption policies are also crucial to ensuring their effectiveness. Companies must constantly measure the impact of their initiatives, adjust their strategies in line with emerging risks, and maintain constant vigilance in the face of new threats.
The fight against corruption, an essential component of business ethics, requires a firm commitment on the part of every employee, supported by well-defined policies and a strong corporate culture. Only by cultivating an environment based on integrity can companies maintain trust and contribute to a fairer, more sustainable global economy.
