Bribery and Corruption in Switzerland

Switzerland has taken significant steps to combat bribery and corruption, both domestically and internationally. In this article, we will delve into the key provisions, offences, and conventions related to bribery and corruption in Switzerland.

Regulatory Provisions

The Swiss Criminal Code (SCC) contains essential provisions related to bribery and corruption offences. These regulations aim to prevent and punish individuals and companies that engage in corrupt activities.

• Active and Passive Bribery: Article 322septies of the SCC prohibits active and passive bribery of foreign public officials.
• Corporate Liability: Companies may be held criminally liable for failing to take reasonable measures to prevent bribery and corruption offences.

International Conventions

Switzerland is a signatory to several international anti-corruption conventions, demonstrating its commitment to combating corruption globally. These conventions include:

• OECD Bribery Convention: An international agreement aimed at preventing bribery of foreign public officials in international business transactions.
• Civil Law Convention on Corruption: A treaty that provides a framework for civil law countries to combat corruption and recover proceeds of corruption.
• Corruption Convention: A multilateral agreement focused on promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law in the fight against corruption.

Conclusion

Bribery and corruption are serious issues that Switzerland takes seriously. The country’s regulatory provisions, international conventions, and corporate liability laws demonstrate its commitment to preventing and punishing corrupt activities. For more comprehensive information, it is recommended to consult the Swiss Criminal Code or other authoritative sources.