antibribery

Anti-bribery refers to policies, procedures, and practices designed to prevent bribery and other forms of corruption in both the public and private sectors. Bribery typically involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value to influence the actions of a public official, business counterpart, or intermediary. Anti-bribery aims to promote integrity, lawful conduct, fair competition, and transparent governance across organizations and industries.

Internationally, several frameworks shape anti-bribery efforts. The OECD Anti-Bribery Convention criminalizes the bribery of foreign public officials by individuals and companies. The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) covers a broad range of corruption offenses. The ISO 37001 standard provides a voluntary framework for anti-bribery management systems. Major jurisdictions have enacted enforceable regimes such as the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and the UK Bribery Act, which address bribery and related accounting controls.

A typical anti-bribery program combines policy statements from senior leadership with practical controls. Key elements include risk assessments, clear gifts and hospitality policies, due diligence on third parties, accurate accounting and books and records, and robust reporting channels. Training, internal audits, and periodic monitoring help detect and deter improper payments. Effective programs require governance by a designated compliance function and ongoing board oversight.

Enforcement varies by jurisdiction but can include criminal penalties for individuals and civil or criminal penalties for organizations, including fines, disgorgement of profits, debarment, and imprisonment. Regulators may pursue sanctions for facilitation payments, kickbacks, or falsified records. Enforcement actions often involve coordination across agencies and international cooperation.

Anti-bribery efforts influence risk management, corporate culture, and competitive dynamics in global markets. Organizations with strong programs aim to protect reputations, sustain long-term value, and reduce legal and financial risk in complex supply chains. Ongoing vigilance is required as laws evolve and corrupt practices adapt to new business models.