What is the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption?
The General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption is a set of rules, regulations and practices designed to mitigate and prevent cases of corruption within public and private organisations. In Portugal, this scheme plays a crucial role in ensuring integrity, transparency and trust in institutions, thus contributing to strengthening democracy and the country's sustainable development.
Fundamental Principles of the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption
Institutional transparency
Transparency is more than a bureaucratic requirement. It is the key element for trust in institutions. In this way, the disclosure of information and the accessibility of processes promote an open organisational culture where trust and responsibility prevail.
Ethics
Establishing clear ethical standards and promoting adherence to them strengthens the integrity of operations, creating an environment where decisions are made not only in accordance with the law, but also with sound moral principles.
Efficiency in resource management
Efficient management also involves optimising the use of resources, which generates, not only a financial compromise, but also a positive social impact insofar as it is a priority for organisations to prevent opportunities for corruption to occur.
Education and awareness
Raising awareness about corruption and its impact promotes an organisational culture governed by ethics and integrity.
Continuous and active prevention
Prevention is the proactive approach needed to deter corrupt behaviour. However, it implies the implementation of targeted internal processes, continuous training for employees and constant adaptation to the dynamics of the environment in which an organisation operates.
How organisations can implement this scheme
The implementation of the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption requires a comprehensive approach, ranging from the commitment of managers to continuous risk assessment.
Leadership commitment
The leadership and management are the agents of change within organisations, so their commitment to change is crucial. They must therefore be the first to adopt and display the principles of the General Scheme. This stance creates an environment where integrity is valued and serves as an example for the entire organisation.
Risk assessment
Identifying and understanding the specific risks an organisation faces is crucial. Carrying out a careful assessment can trigger the identification of vulnerable areas, as well as allows for the implementation of preventative and targeted measures.
Ongoing training and awareness-raising
Training and awareness-raising are key to keep employees up to date on internal practices and policies. Raising awareness of the risks associated with corruption is a valuable tool in building an organisational mentality resistant to malpractice.
Regular audits
Carrying out regular audits as a guarantee of integrity is an essential practice. This process assesses the effectiveness of anti-corruption policies and procedures, identifies areas for improvement and ensures that the organisation remains compliant with the standards of the General Scheme.
Consequences of non-compliance with the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption
Non-compliance with the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption could have serious consequences in various dimensions, affecting both the company and the employees involved.
Legal sanctions
Non-compliance subjects organisations to severe legal sanctions. Significant fines can be imposed as a result of corrupt practices, and the possibility of legal action is imminent and should therefore be considered. The authorities are increasingly vigilant and legal penalisation is a reality for those who incur non-compliance.
Individual accountability
Responsibilities extend to all individuals within a company. Non-compliance can lead to individual liability, including legal proceedings against employees involved in incorrect practices.
Impact on corporate image
Damage to the reputation of an organisation's corporate image is a real consequence of any non-compliance with this scheme. The loss of trust on the part of stakeholders, customers and business partners can be irrecoverable. Thus, once compromised, a company's image on the market can require significant efforts to restore.
The role of supervisory bodies in implementing the General Scheme
The General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption depends to a large extent on the effectiveness of government oversight bodies, such as the General Inspectorate of Internal Administration and the General Inspectorate of Finance. They play a crucial role in supervising and ensuring compliance, contributing to institutional integrity and transparency.
Active surveillance
The IGAI and IGF are not mere observers of the process, but play an active role in detecting and preventing corrupt practices. Active oversight involves regular audits, inspections and visceral investigations to ensure that organisations comply with established standards.
Audits for continuous monitoring
Audits carried out by the competent authorities provide a continuous assessment of compliance with the General Scheme. Identifying areas of non-compliance makes it possible to pinpoint corrections and improvements that can be implemented, thus strengthening corruption prevention mechanisms.
Application of sanctions
When corrupt practices are detected, supervisory bodies play a crucial role in applying sanctions. This measure, not only holds the organisations involved accountable, but also serves as a deterrent, strengthening companies' commitment to complying with the guidelines of the General Scheme.
Inter-institutional co-operation
The IGAI and IGF do not operate in isolation. Close collaboration between these entities and other supervisory bodies strengthens the efficiency of the implementation and maintenance of the General Scheme. Sharing information and strategies ensures an integrated approach to promoting ethical practices and preventing corrupt acts.
Impact on corporate image
Compliance with the General Scheme for the Prevention of Corruption is more than a legal requirement. It is also a key strategy for preserving companies' reputations. The balance between compliance and reputation is a determining factor in the long-term success of any public or private organisation.
Reliable reassurance
Compliance with ethical and legal standards, such as those established by the General Scheme, is perceived by the public as a serious effort to fulfil the integrity of processes. This convention strengthens credibility, building a solid relationship based on trust between companies, customers, as well as investors.
Differentiation in the market
Complying with the General Scheme is not just a duty, but a strategic opportunity for companies to differentiate themselves within their sectors of activity. Companies that demonstrate and honour their commitment to anti-corruption practices stand out from the rest, attracting customers, employees and capital.
How to report suspicious practices
Reporting suspected corrupt practices is a crucial step in promoting ethical and transparent environments within companies. Organisations play a key role by creating their own secure and confidential channels that encourage the collective participation of employees in this process.
Secure and confidential channels
Complaints hotline
Implementation of a hotline, such as a telephone number or online platform, where employees can make reports anonymously and securely.
Confidential mailbox
Provision of a physical or electronic mailbox dedicated to confidential complaints, guaranteeing the privacy of the complainant.
Active employee participation
Training and awareness-raising
Providing regular training for employees on the importance of preventing corruption and the procedures for reporting it.
Whistle-blower protection
Guarantee that employees who report suspicious practices are properly protected, promoting a culture that values integrity.
Reporting suspicious practices is a crucial pillar in building ethical and corruption-resistant companies. By establishing secure channels, promoting employee participation and guaranteeing appropriate responses, organisations not only prevent corruption, but also strengthen trust and institutional integrity.