The RBD, together with OECD and the EBRD, presented a new business initiative that seeks to work transparently.
The Business Ombudsman Council, with the support of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), presented the All-Ukrainian Network of Integrity and Compliance, a new initiative for business, which seeks to work transparently.
The goal of networking is to promote the idea of ethical and responsible business. Companies participating in the network have agreed to maintain a good business reputation and to continuously improve their own standards of integrity in line with best international practices. The responsibility laid down for the company’s activities will help counteract corruption, weaken regulatory pressure, facilitate access to lending, and facilitate entry into international markets.
Network members will work together to assess the anti-corruption risks to implement compliance programs in their organizations, involve business representatives in discussing the principles of integrity, and increase interest in transparent business conduct among market participants. Members of the network will regularly confirm their level of integrity.
Network development will have several stages. In May, the first round of the merger of companies that came out to be ready to sign a declaration on business integrity was completed. All applicants are recommended by the Business Ombudsman Council, EBRD, OECD, embassies, international organizations and business associations. At the moment, 46 Ukrainian and international companies have signed a declaration of integrity. These companies will jointly form the principles and rules of the network.
“Corruption remains a major obstacle to Ukraine’s economic growth. According to Transparency International, Ukraine ranked 131st out of 176 positions in the corruption perception rating. Creating a network will help unite leaders of the business community of Ukraine who are aware of the importance of transparent business and are ready to become an example for other companies. We will actively support the network, “said Algirdas Shemeta, Business Ombudsman of Ukraine and initiator of networking.
“An important step in the process of improving corporate governance in Ukraine is a world-wide change, which, obviously, is a clear request of Ukrainian society. The legislator, the government and other drivers of corporate governance development should promote accountability, openness, corporate social responsibility and, together, find effective mechanisms for their implementation, “said Oliana Gordienko, EBRD management director.
“The future belongs to creative and courageous, not corrupt and selfish. By joining the network, Ukrainian companies deliberately invest in future development, which is based on fair competition and responsibility, “– noted Olga Savran, manager of AKM, OECD.
Acceptance of applications for connection to the network continues. Any company can join, regardless of size or scope. The key to joining is the desire to establish high standards of business integrity. Participation in the network is free.
On connection to the network, you can contact Tetyana Cheruvivova, Inspector of the Council of the Business Ombudsman: tetiana.kheruvimova@boi.org.ua, + 380 (44) 237 74 01.
The text of the Declaration of Integrity Network
Source boi.org.ua
