Below is an excerpt from ISS-Corporate’s recently released article “Anti-Corruption Programs: A Key Safeguard for Business Continuity”. The full article is available on the ISS-Corporate online library.
The Importance of Anti-Corruption and Anti-Bribery Programs
Issuers have been implementing anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies for many years. Corruption can distort markets and expose companies to significant risks, making robust policies and practices essential for an organization’s license to operate.
Companies with robust policies and implementation practices protect themselves against legal and regulatory risks, including severe penalties for violations, such as criminal chargers, hefty fines, and restrictions on business operations. Anti-corruption and anti-bribery programs also help companies boost investor confidence and build a strong reputation among customers and employees. A commitment to integrity can differentiate a company from competitors, especially where ethical concerns may be a priority for key stakeholders, while also improving corporate culture and employee morale. Furthermore, these programs protect against potential operational risks, such as inflated costs, unreliable supply chains, and inefficient resource allocation.
By:
Kosmas Papadopoulos, Executive Director, Head of Sustainability Advisory – Americas, ISS-Corporate
