REASONS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN INTEGRITY PROGRAM.

In general, studies indicate that the Integrity Program can bring a series of benefits to companies that implement it, such as:

■1. gain in #image and #reputation;

■ 2. increase in #commercialopportunities;

■ 3. reduction of operational costs and the possibility of #internalfraud;

■4. attraction and retention of employees who value ethics and integrity; and

■5. less likelihood of fraud and corruption occurring, as well as reducing the impact of such events, should they occur, including the possibility of reducing the value of fines.

Brazilian legislation already provides some benefits for companies that adopt integrity programs.

As an example, it is worth mentioning Decree no 11.129/2022:

“The purpose is not a mere slogan or marketing campaign; It is the fundamental reason for a company. It's what it does every day to generate value for its stakeholders.

Purpose is not just the pursuit of profit, but it is the driving force to achieve it. Profit is in no way inconsistent with purpose; in fact, profit and purpose are closely linked. Profit is essential for a company to serve all stakeholders efficiently over time – not just shareholders, but also employees, customers and communities.

Similarly, when a company truly understands and expresses its purpose, it acts with focus and strategic discipline in order to generate long-term profitability. Purpose unites directors, employees and communities. Generates ethical behavior and creates important control over actions contrary to the best interests of interested parties. Purpose drives culture, provides a framework for consistent decision-making, and ultimately helps sustain long-term financial returns for the company’s shareholders.”

In the private sector, it is already an increasingly consolidated practice to evaluate integrity and #ESG criteria for making investments and hiring business partners4. In this scenario, the adoption of an Integrity Program can directly contribute to the conclusion of a contract or the receipt of investments.

The decision to implement an Integrity Program demonstrates, from the outset, the commitment and responsibility of the entrepreneur and the company with business ethics. But not only that, by implementing the Integrity Program and applying it in its routine, the company can enjoy benefits already established by the market and national legislation. Furthermore, it effectively collaborates with the formation of a more honest corporate environment, which favors the competitiveness, innovation, transparency and sustainability of the national market.