Transparency International UK has today launched an updated version of its free-to-use ‘Doing Business Without Bribery’ e-learning course.

Aimed at small and medium-sized businesses, the course can be used to train staff on how to manage bribery risks and is aimed at companies that operate in multiple jurisdictions.

International markets often present businesses with risky scenarios that their staff are not necessarily prepared to deal with.

An estimated £1.4 trillion changes hands in bribes globally ever year.

Helping companies to comply with anti-bribery laws

There are several anti-bribery laws, including the UK Bribery Act, which internationally trading businesses need to comply with when selling overseas. These laws also apply to anyone working on their behalf in these overseas markets.

Companies that fail to ensure they are complying with anti-bribery laws risk prosecution, significant fines and reputational damage.

The Doing Business Without Bribery course is designed to help businesses and individuals learn about and manage this risk.

It lasts only 30 minutes and participants are taught about what constitutes a bribe, how and where bribery risks arise, and steps they can take to avoid and resist demands for a bribe.

The way we trade is set to change

Lesley Batchelor OBE, Director General of the Institute of Export & International Trade, said:

“The way companies trade is set to change once Britain leaves Europe. It will be more important than ever that businesses, big and small, understand how to avoid the risk of bribery and corruption as they come into contact with new markets.

“Transparency International UK’s online anti-bribery tool for staff at small and medium sized businesses couldn’t be more timely.”

Sophie Ogilvy, Director of Transparency International UK’s Business Integrity Programme, said:

“Recent scandals have shown that even very established companies struggle to manage their bribery and corruption risks, often resulting in lasting reputational damage, lengthy court cases and huge fines. In order to protect themselves, companies large and small must ensure they have adequate procedures, including training, in place to mitigate against these risks.

“Our revised e-training offers employers a user-friendly way to train their employees – working through realistic situations which help to identify some key risk areas, and offering best practice and practical guidance.

“Corruption is a part of everyday life in many parts of the world and can have a devastating impact. Bribery perpetuates corrupt systems which in turn trap people in poverty and see the most vulnerable robbed of life-saving public services. In order to combat this problem, it is essential that staff in businesses act both ethically and within the law, and are supported to do this with high quality training.”

For more information, please visit: http://www.doingbusinesswithoutbribery.com/

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