Unveiling ICC 2023 Anti-Corruption Rules: A Blueprint for Responsible Business

ICC has unveiled its new 2023 Rules on Combating Corruption, establishing a groundbreaking standard for corporate practices in navigating integrity risks across global value chains.

Regarded as a flagship tool for cultivating business integrity worldwide, the updated ICC Rules refine the previous 2011 edition in alignment with contemporary standards and corporate methodologies. These rules have been meticulously crafted under the guidance of the ICC Global Commission on Anti-corruption and Corporate Responsibility.

The launch of the 2023 Rules on Combating Corruption took place on December 11, spearheaded by ICC Chair Maria Fernanda Garza at the commencement of the UN Conference of the States Parties to UN CAC in Atlanta. The 10th Conference of States Parties (CoSP 10), commemorating the 20th anniversary of the UN Convention against Corruption, evaluates strategies for enhancing the implementation of this legally binding instrument.

In anticipation of the release, we engaged in a conversation with Viviane Schiavi, ICC Global Policy Lead on Anti-corruption and Corporate Responsibility, to gain insights into the new rules and the role businesses can play in the battle against corruption.

What changes or additions have been made to the new ICC Rules on Combating Corruption, and how do they address current challenges in preventing corruption?

The 2023 ICC Rules on Combating Corruption introduce enhancements to facilitate reporting mechanisms, crucial in uncovering and deterring wrongdoing. Notably, the rules reinforce the section on engaging and managing Third Parties, recognizing their often vulnerable integrity link in the supply chain. Additionally, for the first time, ICC’s Rules on Combating Corruption advocate for the promotion of Responsible Business Conduct, reflecting the growing expectation for enterprises to make positive contributions to sustainable development and address adverse impacts related to their operations.

What steps can businesses take to stamp out corruption?

Companies should initiate the establishment of a code of conduct or company rules explicitly prohibiting corrupt practices in all instances and forms. This includes Commercial or Public Bribery, Extortion or Solicitation, Trading in Influence, and Laundering the proceeds of such practices. This prohibition applies directly or indirectly (e.g., through Third Parties). Businesses are encouraged to adopt a proactive stance by developing compliance programs based on risk assessments tailored to their business activities. These programs should identify, manage, and address integrity issues and may include guidance on political and charitable contributions, conflicts of interest, gifts, hospitality, and more.

What is ICC’s role in influencing global anti-corruption efforts?

ICC has consistently emphasized the pivotal role of enterprises' compliance with self-imposed rules, recognizing the fundamental responsibility of international organizations and national governments in combating corruption and promoting responsible business conduct. Pioneering anti-corruption rules as early as 1977 with the ICC Rules to Combat Extortion and Bribery, ICC has developed a robust suite of practical rules and guidelines for responsible business conduct, tailored by and for businesses. ICC advocates that only a corruption-free system allows all participants to compete on a level playing field.

What potential impact do these updated rules have on the day-to-day operations of businesses?

These new Rules are poised to establish a benchmark for corporate practice in managing integrity risks across global value chains. Particularly beneficial for SMEs lacking legal departments, these rules provide concrete considerations and guidelines for implementation.

Read more on the new 2023 ICC Rules on Combating Corruption.

Learn more about ICC’s work on Anti-Corruption.