Programme latest - Pearl Initiative

Empowering Ethical Business in the Gulf Region with the Anti-Corruption Best Practices Programme

Established in 2015, the Pearl Initiative's Anti-Corruption Best Practices Programme (ACBP) serves as a proactive response to the issue of corruption, emphasizing the importance of due diligence, accountability, and transparency within the realm of business operations. The program aims to foster a corporate culture in the Gulf region where ethical conduct is at the forefront of business success.

The ACBP focuses o n presenting a compelling business case for anti-corruption measures, highlighting that integrity is not just a moral principle but also a practical strategy for long-term sustainability. By promoting awareness and understanding of the significant economic and social impact of corruption, the ACBP encourages businesses to embrace meaningful change.

Central to the program's approach is the recognition that a one-size-fits-all solution is inadequate in the diverse and dynamic Gulf region. Consequently, the ACBP advocates for culturally relevant anti-corruption solutions, empowering businesses with the tools and guidance to integrate these principles into their daily operations.

Through collaboration and unwavering commitment, the Anti-Corruption Best Practices Programme aspires to shape a future where ethical business practices are not only endorsed but actively celebrated. This vision, in turn, promises sustainable economic growth, heightened competitiveness, and a brighter outlook for the entire Gulf region.

programme Objectives

The Anti-Corruption Best Practices Programme (ACBP) is committed to enriching the landscape of anti-corruption knowledge and practices in the Gulf region. Through a comprehensive approach encompassing various initiatives such as awareness campaigns, training sessions, and research endeavors, the ACBP strives to empower businesses to uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

Publish research and insights on developments in anti-corruption across the Gulf region
Publish research and insights on developments in anti-corruption across the Gulf region
Support implementation of higher levels of integrity and transparency by providing practical training and tools, showcasing best practices and enabling peer to peer discussions and support
Support implementation of higher levels of integrity and transparency by providing practical training and tools, showcasing best practices and enabling peer to peer discussions and support

For further information and partnership opportunities, please contact us at enquiries@pearlinitiative.org.

Programme
Achievements

Launched in 2015 in partnership with the Siemens Integrity Initiative, the Anti-Corruption Best Practices Programme (ACBP) has been a driving force in promoting ethical conduct and accountability in the Gulf business arena. The program focuses on disseminating knowledge, practical tools, and building a professional network dedicated to anti-corruption practices in the region.

To date the programme has engaged over 1000 business professionals through various sessions across the Gulf, emphasizing integrity in business practices. In the academic sphere, the program has significantly raised anti-corruption awareness, reaching 4,000 students across 40 universities through case study competitions that involved 190 companies. In collaboration with SABIC, the ACBP initiated the innovative B20 Curriculum-driven Gender and Corruption workshops, engaging 60 compliance leads from 55 companies.

We launched the Anti-Corruption Best Practices Working Group in 2022. The working group serves as an invaluable forum for the exchange of expertise and the advancement of anti-corruption initiatives. Comprised of prominent companies from PI's corporate partner network, including stc, SABIC, Siemens, Chalhoub Group, Shell, Tamer Group, Marsh, Crescent Petroleum, Dana Gas, and CCC, this dynamic working group actively collaborates on exchanging practical insights. They delve into addressing key challenges and exploring viable solutions for integrating integrity practices into daily business operations.

A significant milestone for the working group lies in the creation of its comprehensive 3-part Compliance Guidebook series, a collaborative effort with our esteemed partners and industry leaders including stc, Chalhoub Group, SABIC, CCC, and Siemens. This series serves as a crucial resource, particularly beneficial for organizations embarking on their compliance journey. It provides accessible guidance on key topics such as Leadership Engagement and Accountability, Fostering a Speak-up Culture, and Effective Communications. To download these valuable guidebooks, please visit the Resource Center tab of the website.

Ethics and compliance, while often used interchangeably, address distinct aspects of organizational conduct. Ethics and integrity are about the cultural fabric of an organization, the moral principles that guide our decisions and actions. It's the ethical culture that fosters trust and respect within and beyond the organization. On the other hand, compliance is specifically concerned with adherence to applicable laws and regulations. Understanding this distinction is crucial because it shapes how we approach both areas. While compliance ensures that we meet external legal standards, ethics are about our internal commitment to doing what is right, beyond just what is required.”

Mr. Naveed Ansari

SVP & Compliance Head Middle East at Siemens

E“Storytelling is a powerful tool in the realm of corporate ethics. Through engaging narratives, we can vividly illustrate the importance of ethical behavior, making these principles relatable and resonant for every employee. This approach not only reinforces our core values but also paves the way for open dialogue and transparency. In line with this, establishing robust reporting channels is critical. These channels, including options for third-party engagement, ensure that our employees have a safe and trusted avenue to speak up.”

Mr. Jihad Hakamy

General Manager and Chief Counsel at SABIC

Programme Collaborators

We have partnered with Gulf regional and international organisations to help us design and deliver bespoke
programming for our stakeholders. These include the following organisations

Working group partners

With over 40 regional and international partners the Pearl Initiative brings together business policy and social sector decision-makers to
share best practice and help maximize sustainable and inclusive growth across the region