Antonina Prudko participated in the meeting of the Integrity Group from the Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Eurasia of the OECD

The head of the UNIC Secretariat, Antonina Prudko, addressed the meeting of the Integrity Group from the Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Eurasia of the OECD in Paris. She shared insights into the significant benefits of collaboration through collective action initiatives with various stakeholders, using the All-Ukrainian Integrity and Compliance Network as a prime example.

In 2022, the Anti-Corruption Network for Eastern Europe and Eurasia of the OECD (ACM) established the Group on Integrity. This group focuses on exploring best practices for fostering a culture of integrity in the region, sharing experiences, and developing joint solutions and initiatives.

The recent third meeting of the Group brought together representatives from four stakeholder groups of ACM member countries: governments, businesses, business ombudsman initiatives, as well as collective action initiatives and business associations active in the region. The meeting aimed not only to expand the Group itself and define the scope of its work but also to formulate strategies and joint approaches to promote a culture of business integrity in the region.

During her speech, Antonina presented the successful experience of involving various stakeholders in the implementation of UNIC initiatives and projects. She analyzed the advantages of such an approach and underscored the importance and effectiveness of implementing the 2021 OECD recommendation on combating bribery. This recommendation urges states to promote collective action initiatives, create platforms for multilateral dialogues, and support private sector and non-governmental stakeholders in their efforts to ensure business integrity.

"UNIC, as a collective action initiative, inherently brings together the efforts, expertise, and experience of different companies. We thoroughly understand the benefits of involving all stakeholders in our work. Whether it's the development of proposals for the Anti-corruption Strategy, the state anti-corruption plan, the launch of the Business Integrity Academy, or the annual Business Integrity Months — the quality depends on the level of involvement of representatives from various NGOs, associations, government or international organizations, the diversity of experts, joint discussions, advocacy, and the effectiveness and sustainability of the results," emphasized Antonina in her speech.

She highlighted UNIC's work with SMEs as another exemplary instance, where collaboration with various stakeholders resulted in the development of a comprehensive program to support and develop integrity practices among SMEs. This program was recognized nationally and awarded during the Assembly of SMEs in Europe.

Antonina pointed out that effective recovery for Ukraine, considering the challenges posed by future reconstruction, necessitates the broad involvement of various interested parties. UNIC actively collaborates with other NGOs within the RISE Ukraine coalition, contributing to the development of the post-war recovery plan and legislative initiatives regarding compliance and the implementation of good practices in recovery projects.

"In the face of current challenges, the benefits of involving all stakeholders in finding and implementing effective solutions are evident. Among these benefits are community building and strengthening the voice of business, higher quality expertise, and the opportunity to develop more effective products. There's also the formation of a responsible community of practitioners willing to contribute to the development of standards, products, and methodologies, and share their best tools, approaches, and experiences. This collaborative approach facilitates the multiplication of efforts, easier access to different audiences, and a much wider coverage of the idea of integrity. Undoubtedly, the war has elevated the topic of business integrity to a higher level and proven its necessity and value. We, as a Network, are proud to have weathered these challenges, and all our members remain with us," concluded Antonina Prudko.

UNIC expresses gratitude to the organizers for the invitation and the opportunity to represent Ukrainian businesses at the international level, conveying the position of the country's business community to foreign audiences and partners.