The students of the Anti-Corruption School for Young Leaders discussed the Anti-Corruption Compliance Program (ACCP) with Ms Lusine Nalbandyan, the Lawyer\/Expert of the Armenian Lawyers\u2019 Association.<\/p>\n
The expert first presented the common models of liability of legal entities, presenting the experience of Anglo-Saxon and continental law countries.\u00a0Further she spoke about Armenia’s international commitments, within the framework of which Armenia is required to provide for the institute of legal responsibility of a legal entity.\u00a0Emphasize was made on the necessity of introducing ACCP in Armenia. She presented facts about the corruption risks in the business sphere in Armenia, in particular the high risk of corruption in the investing countries in Armenia.\u00a0She also touched upon the individual and global benefits of economic entities,\u00a0in case they implement the ACCP with all its components.\u00a0According to her, the private sector needs the introduction of the ACCP.\u00a0It will help the company avoid criminal liability, reduce business costs, attract new investments, enhance the business reputation of the company, improve the business environment in Armenia and prevent the emerging of corruption risks, which will gradually reduce corruption in the business sector.<\/p>\n
An important principle of the ACCP is the involvement of the company head in the process, accountability, transparency of the process, efficiency, and control and engagement of employees.\u00a0The expert noted in her speech that it is important that the management shall show commitment during the implementation of ACCP, including corporate governance, ethics, and business turnover.\u00a0Management should be committed to involve employees in the process by being an example for them.<\/p>\n
\u201cRisk assessment is also important.\u00a0Weaknesses should be found, to determine the degree of probability of corruption, and to give special guidance on the possibilities of the origin of corruption.\u00a0It is necessary to implement a risk management plan, evaluate and periodically review it.\u00a0ACCP is not a stagnant system;\u00a0it involves constant improvement and monitoring.\u00a0We cannot invest ACCP only in the private sector and succeed in fighting corruption;\u00a0it should also work within the public service,\u201d Lusine Nalbandyan said.<\/p>\n