This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from one of Transparency International’s national chapters. The Anti-Corruption Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International and funded by the European Union.
Query
Can you provide a short overview on the existing standards and best practices, altogether with the relevant bibliography regarding the adoption of a ethical code and mission statement for energy companies?
Content
1. Codes of ethics for companies: an overview
2. Good practice example in the energy sector: Statoil’s code of ethics
3. Resources on codes of corporate conduct
SUMMARY
An ethical code clarifies the objectives a company pursues, the norms and values it upholds and the conduct it expects from its leadership, employees and business partners. They usually include a vision and mission statement followed by more detailed standards and rules for employees, covering issues related to corruption as well as human rights, environment protection, fair competition and the protection of the company’s assets. This answer provides an overview of the main issues related to the adoption and implementation of codes of ethics for businesses and a list of available international standards, guidelines and background studies related to codes of corporate ethics. While these do not necessarily focus on the energy sector, they also apply to companies operating in this field.
Authors
Maíra Martini, Transparency International, [email protected]Reviewers
Marie Chene, Transparency InternationalDate
18/12/2014
