RATIONALE
“No company can solve a global crisis on its own”.
In the context of evolving global legislation and increase in the support for the UN and OECD missions of combating corruption, businesses face increased pressure to comply with ethical standards, rules and laws. Corruption and bribery are undoubtedly global phenomena that continue to negatively impact on business operations across the globe. To mitigate this risk companies have to establish strong ethics and compliance programs within their organizations as well as engage in programs that positively impact on the business environment within which they operate. It is in this context that a group of interested businesses have come together to form a Coalition for the promotion of Ethical Operations (the CEO Initiative) to support each other in the implementation of relevant programs.
PURPOSE
The purpose of the Coalition for Ethical Operations (CEO) is to engage in a program of activities aimed at promoting ethical business and reducing bribery and corruption across Sub-Saharan Africa. The specific objectives are as follows:
- To share best practices
- To promote training of SMEs, including company suppliers
- To engage in occasional and voluntary collective/collaborative action
MEMBERSHIP
Participation in the Coalition for Ethical Operations (the CEO Initiative) is open to all businesses that have operations in Sub-Saharan Africa and that commit themselves to ethical business and anti-corruption practices by signing the Pledge document
Membership of the CEO Initiative will be reviewed and renewed on an annual basis.