Code of Business Conduct
Introduction
This Code of Business Conduct establishes the standards of ethical behavior for Uprety Global Business Consulting and Services (UGBCS). It applies to all stakeholders, including employees, contractors, suppliers, investors, collaborators, vendors, subcontractors, and partners. Every individual associated with UGBCS must comply with this Code and all applicable laws, regulations, and best international practices. Violations will result in disciplinary actions, including termination and legal proceedings.
Purpose
The Code aims to:
- Promote ethical behavior and integrity.
- Ensure compliance with local and international regulations.
- Prevent bribery, corruption, and conflicts of interest.
- Uphold human rights and environmental sustainability.
Compliance with Laws, Rules, and Regulations
All individuals and entities associated with UGBCS must comply with all applicable local laws, including the laws of Nepal, and international legal frameworks. This includes laws concerning labor practices, anti-discrimination, financial reporting, and data protection (such as GDPR for European clients). UGBCS is committed to conducting business in full compliance with all legal standards.
Best Practices:
- Regular legal audits and updates to ensure compliance with emerging laws.
- Legal awareness training for employees and partners.
Ethical Standards and Integrity
We uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in every aspect of our business. UGBCS expects honesty, fairness, and transparency from all employees and business partners.
Key Principles:
- Integrity: Avoid dishonest, deceitful, or fraudulent actions.
- Transparency: Ensure that all business activities, including financial reporting, are transparent and accurately recorded.
- Respect: Treat everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of role, gender, or background.
Anti-Bribery and Corruption (ABC) Policy
UGBCS maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward bribery and corruption. No individual or business entity working with or for UGBCS should engage in any form of corrupt behavior.
Prohibited Activities:
- Offering, giving, soliciting, or receiving bribes (including gifts and hospitality) to gain any business advantage.
- Making facilitation payments (small unofficial payments to expedite routine tasks).
Reporting Mechanism:
Employees and third parties are encouraged to report suspicious activities related to bribery or corruption through our Whistleblower Program (see Section 10).
Conflicts of Interest
All employees, contractors, and partners must act in the best interests of UGBCS and avoid any activities or relationships that could create a conflict of interest.
Disclosure Requirements:
If any potential conflict of interest arises, it must be disclosed immediately to the management team for assessment and resolution.
Data Privacy and Confidentiality
UGBCS respects the privacy and confidentiality of all personal data and sensitive business information. This applies to client data, internal business information, and employee records.
Data Handling:
- Adherence to international data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR for European clients).
- Encryption and secure storage of sensitive information.
- Access control to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
Human Rights and Labor Standards
UGBCS is committed to respecting and promoting human rights throughout our business operations and value chain. We ensure fair labor practices and working conditions for all employees and subcontractors.
Key Commitments:
- Prohibiting forced and child labor.
- Ensuring equal opportunity employment and non-discrimination.
- Compliance with national labor laws and international labor standards set by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Environmental Responsibility
UGBCS recognizes the importance of sustainable business practices. We are committed to reducing our environmental footprint and encouraging our partners, suppliers, and clients to adopt sustainable practices.
Sustainable Initiatives:
- Minimizing waste and promoting recycling.
- Ensuring energy efficiency in our operations.
- Encouraging green procurement and environmentally conscious suppliers.
Vendor and Supplier Code of Conduct
All vendors, suppliers, and contractors working with UGBCS are expected to adhere to our ethical standards. We expect third-party businesses to comply with local and international laws, maintain ethical labor practices, and ensure the integrity of their business operations.
Vendor Responsibilities:
- Ensure that no corrupt payments are made on behalf of UGBCS.
- Maintain transparent records of all transactions.
- Engage in fair competition and avoid anti-competitive practices.
Whistleblower Protection
UGBCS encourages all employees, partners, and contractors to report any suspicious activities, unethical practices, or violations of this Code. We have established a Whistleblower Program to provide protection for those who report in good faith.
Protections Offered:
- Anonymity for whistleblowers if requested.
- No retaliation for reporting concerns.
- Thorough investigation of all reported issues.
Health and Safety Standards
UGBCS is committed to providing a safe working environment for all employees and contractors. This involves compliance with occupational health and safety regulations and continuous efforts to improve safety measures at all workplaces.
Health and Safety Policies:
- Regular safety audits and training for employees.
- Implementation of safety protocols in compliance with OSHA standards.
- Encouraging a safety-first culture among all team members.
Monitoring and Compliance
UGBCS will regularly review and update this Code of Business Conduct to ensure it remains relevant and in compliance with emerging laws and industry best practices.
Enforcement:
- Annual compliance training for all employees.
- Regular monitoring of vendor and contractor compliance.
- Disciplinary action, including legal proceedings, for violations of this Code.
Intellectual Property Protection
UGBCS values and safeguards its intellectual property (IP) as well as the IP of its partners and clients. All employees, vendors, and partners are expected to respect the confidentiality and ownership of proprietary information, designs, and materials.
Key Principles:
- Unauthorized use, reproduction, or sharing of UGBCS or third-party IP is prohibited.
- All innovations developed under UGBCS contracts must be reported and duly protected.
- Proper licensing and copyright compliance must be adhered to at all times.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
UGBCS is committed to contributing to the social, economic, and environmental well-being of the communities in which we operate. Through our CSR programs, we aim to create a positive impact on society and support initiatives that foster education, employment, and sustainable development.
CSR Activities:
- Supporting local community projects.
- Engaging in environmentally sustainable practices.
- Encouraging employee participation in volunteer work and charitable activities.
Application to Partners and Stakeholders
This Code applies not only to UGBCS employees but also to investors, partners, collaborators, vendors, suppliers, contractors, and subcontractors. We expect all our stakeholders to respect the principles outlined in this Code and conduct their operations in alignment with our ethical standards.