The United National Global Compact (UNGC) meeting in London recently focused on anti-corruption initiatives globally.  In recognition of the overall cost to business, and wider economy and society of corrupt practices, principle ten of the UNGC is: "Businesses should work against corruption in all its forms, including extortion and bribery."  

"Global attention on fighting corruption is intensifying" was one of the conclusions at a CIMA seminar at St Paul's cathedral held earlier in April.  The introduction of the UK Bribery Act is part of this "crest of a wave" and the growth of anti-corruption initiatives and focus on ethical business are evident everywhere.  "Call to end corporate corruption" read the headlines in the Malaysian press the day I was presenting

The United Nations Global Compact network meeting last week was focused on the challenges of operating in conflict affected and high risk areas.  Related to the recent release of a guidance for companies and investors, the discussions were timely, given the unfolding events in the MENA region and the indications that we may well enter more uncertain than stable times.  No-one predicted the sweeping call for change across the region, from Tunisia onwards, nor the conflict that has so quickl

With the change in UK government in May this year,  many were wondering how the new coalition would deal with the UK Bribery Act which was passed into law in April.  Bribery and corruption are very costly for business – adding an estimated 10%

As the new Bribery Bill moves towards enactment in Parliament, it is a good time to consider the role of accountants in wrestling back their rightful ethical position in business.

During 2009, I have been part of CIMA's Round table on ethics in business and my article in this month's Financial Management - Backbones vs Backhanders - (Page 13) sums up my proposals on the part that accountants (especially management accountants) can play.