As an organisation that is committed to the highest standards of ethical behaviour, it is essential that the CoST International Secretariat oversees and implements a policy of zero-tolerance, recognising that bribery and corruption and contrary to fundamental values of integrity, transparency and accountability and undermines organisational effectiveness.

The Policy sets out the general rules and principles to which CoST adheres in preventing bribery and corruption. It explains the procedures through which CoST can maintain high ethical standards and protect its reputation against any allegations of bribery and corruption. The UK Bribery Act 2010 has reinforced the need for organisations such as CoST to have in place effective measures for preventing bribery and corruption.

This is not just a cultural commitment. Bribery and corruption is a criminal offence in the UK and in many other countries.