The role of business associations and chambers of commerce in the fight against corruption

Query

Please provide specific examples or initiatives led by or supported by Chambers of Commerce and Business Associations in helping business fighting against corruption?

Purpose

The agency is looking for best practices, where these organisations play a lead or supporting role in promoting collective action among businesses.

Content

1. How can business associations support the fight against corruption?
2. Examples of business associations fighting corruption in practice
3. How to assess whether a business association is a good partner?

Summary

Companies are most likely to behave ethically and act against corruption if they are confident that their competitors also adhere to the same ethical standards. Business associations and chambers of commerce can potentially offer a good platform for companies operating in a given sector to collectively engage in the fight against corruption and level the playing field between competitors.

There are several ways in which business associations and chambers of commerce can support anti-corruption efforts. They can facilitate collective action, collectively advocate for reforms and encourage more transparency and accountability in government decisions, as well as promote good corporate integrity among its members. Examples show that chambers of commerce and business associations have played an important role particularly in setting integrity and anti-corruption standards for businesses mainly through certification programmes and the adoption of codes of conduct. This is the case for example in Thailand and the Philippines.  Other areas of intervention include trainings, awareness raising and advocacy as implemented by business associations in China and Vietnam.

Authors

Maíra Martini, Transparency Internationa, [email protected] 

Reviewer:

Marie Chêne, Transparency International

Date

09/10/2013

Tags