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Transcript for Episode 25 - How to operate with business integrity

Doing business with integrity means ensuring you operate responsibly, honestly and ethically.

The impact of not doing so includes mistrust, reputational damage, and even involvement in serious crime.

So it’s important to understand the risks and laws that surround bribery, corruption, human rights and modern slavery.

Let’s look at them in more detail.

The UK Bribery Act 2010 applies to all operations of a company in the UK. Even if offences are committed abroad by a non-British citizen or third parties acting on behalf of your company.

It’s also important to be aware of country specific laws too.

Human rights violations.

It’s every company’s duty to respect the human rights of its workers and those involved in the supply chain.

The global authority on this is the UN’s Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs). The principles are develop a public commitment to respect human rights. Practice due diligence. Track effectiveness. Communicate what you’re doing. Establish a process to remedy anyone harmed.

Modern slavery.

Modern slavery is a type of human rights abuse and includes human trafficking, servitude, forced and child labour. The UK’s Slavery Act sets out rules for businesses operating in the UK.

Check gov.uk for guidance on all of these areas.

Most importantly, train your team and make sure your policies are clear.

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