The Business Hub offers information and tools to businesses seeking to strengthen integrity in their operations by assessing their corruption risks, developing compliance programmes, and participating in Collective Action activities. These tools have been developed by UNODC, together with stakeholders, throughout different projects and are available for free and in a range of languages. We encourage you to use these to take part in the global effort to strengthen business integrity!
Unethical behaviour and corrupt acts constitute a business risk and can lead to significant costs at the organizational level, including legal sanctions, fines, termination of business relationships, debarment, damage to a company's brand and reputation, and lower levels of employee satisfaction and retention.
Ethical business practices can bring about tangible advantages, such as enhanced access to market opportunities and incentives, higher reputation and customer loyalty, and attracting and retaining talented employees. Clean business and fair competition provide an environment conducive to innovation, which is good for both the business and its customers and therefore benefits society as a whole.
To prevent and counter unethical behaviour, businesses need to take measures on three levels:
The fifth edition of the Global Webinar Series on Business Integrity took place on 4 April 2024. During the webinar session, we discussed the intricacies of assessing anti-corruption compliance frameworks, offering insights into effective measurement strategies, key performance indicators and best practices. Read the full story here.
In the upcoming webinar, we will explore the company communicates its progress and forward-looking strategies for implementing its commitment by developing a Communication on Progress and engages with stakeholders to identify ways to improve performance continuously.
This webinar will take place on 10 October 2024 from 16.00 – 17.30 pm CEST.
Please register for the event here.
Gender diversity in the workplace has been found to improve business integrity in various ways including fewer instances of misconduct and stronger governance structures. The reverse is true as well – greater integrity, transparency and accountability in the private sector frequently boosts gender diversity and equity in the workplace. Nonetheless, the gender dimensions of business integrity remain insufficiently understood and infrequently integrated into corporate compliance frameworks.
This first thematic webinar of the Global Webinar Series on Business Integrity took place on 19 October 2023. During the session, we discussed how companies can capitalize on the mutually reinforcing relationship between gender equality and business integrity. The virtual event featured live translation to French, Portuguese and Spanish, bringing together private sector representatives from across the world. Read the full story.
Whistle-blower protection in business is a critical component of corporate governance and ethical practice. It ensures that individuals who speak out against wrongdoing are safeguarded from retaliation. By fostering an environment where employees feel empowered to raise concerns without fear of reprisal, organizations can strengthen their integrity, enhance trust, and ultimately thrive in today's complex business landscape.
This second thematic webinar of the Global Webinar Series on Business Integrity took place on 16 July 2024. In this session, we explored the complexities surrounding whistle-blower protection, exploring the legal frameworks, organizational cultures, and practical strategies that promote transparency and accountability within businesses. The session featured presentations by UNODC and the UN Global Compact and brought on board experts and practitioners from Colombia, Malaysia and Switzerland who shared their real-life experiences.