Anti-Corruption Policy

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Preamble
The diversion of resources or misuse of power compromises BIRARADA Association’s values and our accountability to our members and the communities we engage with. Any suggestion that BIRARADA is linked to corruption can damage the reputation of the Association, undermine staff morale, and erode the trust and support of beneficiaries, partners, the wider public, and donors. Corruption poses legal risks both for the organization and individuals involved.

Thus, we must act—and be seen to act—in a way that is honest and transparent. This policy supports existing Association policies and standards, reinforcing BIRARADA’s commitment to foster an organizational culture in which corruption is never acceptable.

Policy Statement

  1. Corruption on the part of any BIRARADA member, employee, board member, or volunteer (collectively “BIRARADA Individuals”) or any third party (consultants, partners, etc.) in their engagement with BIRARADA is strictly prohibited.

  2. No BIRARADA Individual, or any third party acting on behalf of or dealing with BIRARADA, shall offer, solicit, or accept a bribe in conjunction with any aspect of BIRARADA’s activities.

  3. Payments otherwise prohibited may only be considered if there is an immediate threat to personal safety. In such cases, the payment must be immediately reported to the Association’s Board and members, and clearly identified in the accounting records.

  4. BIRARADA will ensure that all members, employees, board members, volunteers, and third parties that engage with BIRARADA are made aware of this Anti-Corruption Policy.

  5. BIRARADA will implement a whistleblower policy and procedures to provide members, employees, board members, volunteers, and third parties with a safe mechanism to report evidence of misconduct, including corruption, and to encourage such reporting.

  6. BIRARADA will develop a corruption response plan, documenting how incidents will be investigated, reported, and closed.

  7. Employees or members of BIRARADA who commit a corrupt act, fail to report knowledge of corruption, or fail to manage the risk of corruption will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment or membership. Board Members and Advisory Members who fail to comply with this policy are subject to removal. Third parties who fail to comply with this policy will have their agreements and/or contracts with BIRARADA terminated. BIRARADA may also seek restitution, prosecution, or other legal remedies.

  8. BIRARADA will immediately report all instances of suspected or actual corruption to the local governing board, where one exists (except in cases where the allegation is directed at that body), which is responsible and accountable for ensuring the incident is investigated appropriately.

  9. The Board Members are responsible for ensuring the effective implementation of this policy.

Scope
This anti-bribery and anti-corruption policy covers all BIRARADA members, employees, Board Members, Advisory Members, and any party acting on behalf of or dealing with BIRARADA.

Definitions
Corruption is defined as “the abuse of entrusted power for gain.” It includes practices such as bribery, fraud, extortion, collusion, and money laundering.
It also includes the offer or receipt of any gift, loan, fee, reward, or other advantage to or from any person as an inducement to do something that is dishonest, illegal, or a breach of trust in the conduct of the Association’s activities.

Examples may include:

  • Cash or in-kind benefits (e.g., free goods, gifts, or holidays)

  • Special personal services provided for the purpose of securing an improper advantage

  • Benefits that may create moral pressure to act dishonestly or unethically