7.4 - Communication : Internal and external communication process

The ISO 37001 Anti-Bribery Management Systems standard, instituted by the International Organization for Standardization in 2016, directs organizations globally in fortifying their anti-corruption frameworks. This standard is pivotal for both private and public entities of any size, focusing on active prevention, detection, and management of bribery risks.

How to Answer the Question

To effectively establish an internal and external anti-corruption communication process, organizations should consider the following steps:

1.   Define the Content and Objectives  :

  -   Clear Content Definition  : Clearly define what the communication will cover, such as anti-bribery policies, ethical guidelines, and procedures.

  -   Set Clear Objectives  : Establish what the communications aim to achieve, including raising awareness and guiding behavior.

2.   Identify the Audience  :

  -   Internal and External Stakeholders  : Determine who needs to receive the information, including employees, management, partners, and external stakeholders like vendors and clients.

3.   Choose Appropriate Channels  :

  -   Diverse Media  : Use a mix of channels appropriate for the audience, such as emails, intranet posts, training sessions, webinars, and public statements or reports for external communication.

4.   Schedule Regular Updates  :

  -   Timely Communication  : Schedule communications at regular intervals and ensure they are frequent enough to keep all parties adequately informed and engaged.

5.   Monitor and Adjust  :

  -   Feedback Mechanism  : Implement a method for receiving feedback on the effectiveness of the communication and make adjustments as necessary.

Why It's Important

Establishing an internal and external anti-corruption communication process is crucial for:

-   Promoting Transparency  : Ensures that all parties are aware of the organization’s policies and procedures, promoting an environment of openness.

-   Encouraging Compliance  : Regular communication of anti-corruption measures encourages adherence to these policies.

-   Building Trust  : Transparent communication builds trust both within the organization and with external partners and the public.

Examples

-   Example A  :

 -   Context  : A technology firm updates its anti-corruption policies.

 -   Action  : The firm conducts a webinar for all employees and sends a detailed email to its vendors explaining the new policies.

 -   Outcome  : Enhanced understanding and compliance with the updated policies, reducing the risk of corruption.

-   Example B  :

 -   Context  : A multinational corporation launches a new ethical guideline.

 -   Action  : The corporation hosts a series of workshops for internal staff and publishes an article on its website and industry magazines.

 -   Outcome  : Employees and external stakeholders are well-informed about the corporation's commitment to ethical practices, bolstering its reputation.

For further guidance on setting up effective anti-corruption communication:

- [Agence Française Anticorruption](https://www.agence-francaise-anticorruption.gouv.fr)

- [OECD Anti-Corruption Resources](https://www.oecd.org/corruption)

This guide provides a comprehensive framework for organizations aiming to enhance their anti-corruption efforts through effective communication strategies, ensuring all relevant stakeholders are informed and engaged.