Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Purpose
3. Scope
4. Definition of Bribery and Corruption
5. Policy Statement
6. Responsibilities
7. Procedures for Reporting
8. Training and Awareness
9. Monitoring and Compliance
10. Enforcement and Consequences
11. Review and Amendments
1. Introduction
The Society for Urban & Rural Enlightenment (SURE) is committed to conducting its business with the highest standards of integrity and ethics. This Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption Policy is designed to prevent, detect, and address any forms of bribery and corruption within the organization.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Establish a clear stance against bribery and corruption.
- Provide guidelines to prevent and detect bribery and corruption.
- Ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
- Promote a culture of transparency and accountability within SURE.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all employees, board members, volunteers, contractors, and any other individuals or entities acting on behalf of SURE. It covers all activities and transactions involving SURE, including interactions with external parties such as government officials, suppliers, and donors.
4. Definition of Bribery and Corruption
- Bribery: Offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting anything of value to influence the actions of another party in a way that is unethical or illegal.
- Corruption: The abuse of power or authority for personal gain or the gain of others, including bribery, fraud, embezzlement, and other unethical practices.
5. Policy Statement
- Zero Tolerance: SURE maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption. Any form of bribery or corruption is strictly prohibited.
- Gifts and Hospitality: Employees and representatives of SURE must not offer or accept gifts, hospitality, or any other form of inducement that could be perceived as influencing their impartiality or decision-making.
- Facilitation Payments: Facilitation payments, which are small bribes made to expedite routine government actions, are strictly prohibited.
6. Responsibilities
- Employees and Representatives: Must avoid any form of bribery or corruption and report any suspicious activities or concerns.
- Management: Responsible for implementing and enforcing this policy, providing training, and addressing any issues related to bribery and corruption.
- Compliance Officer: Oversees the policy's implementation, provides guidance, and ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
7. Procedures for Reporting
- Reporting Mechanism: Employees and other stakeholders should report any concerns or suspicions of bribery or corruption through the designated reporting channels.
- Confidentiality: Reports will be handled confidentially to the extent possible, and the identities of whistleblowers will be protected.
- Investigation: All reported incidents will be investigated promptly and thoroughly. Appropriate actions will be taken based on the findings.
8. Training and Awareness
- Training Programs: Regular training will be provided to employees, board members, and representatives on anti-bribery and anti-corruption practices.
- Awareness Campaigns: Ongoing awareness campaigns will be conducted to reinforce the importance of compliance with this policy.
9. Monitoring and Compliance
- Monitoring: Regular monitoring and audits will be conducted to ensure compliance with this policy and to detect any potential breaches.
- Compliance Checks: Compliance with anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws and regulations will be reviewed periodically.
10. Enforcement and Consequences
- Disciplinary Actions: Any violations of this policy will result in disciplinary actions, which may include termination of employment or contracts and legal action.
- Legal Consequences: SURE will cooperate with law enforcement agencies in any investigations or prosecutions related to bribery and corruption.
11. Review and Amendments
- Policy Review: This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and relevance.
- Amendments: Any amendments to this policy will be communicated to all relevant individuals, and training will be updated accordingly.