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Barbados Introduces Tough Penalties for Bribery and Corruption

Bridgetown, Barbados - In a bid to tackle corruption and bribery in the country, the Government of Barbados has introduced stringent penalties for those found guilty of these offenses.

Prevention of Corruption Act, 2021-24

Under this act, individuals convicted of bribery can face fines of up to BBD$1,500,000 or imprisonment for 15 years, or both. Additionally, those convicted will be disqualified from holding any public office for a period of 10 years from the date of conviction.

Other offenses related to corruption and bribery also carry severe penalties:

  • Tipping off, falsifying, concealing, destroying or disposing of anything relevant to an investigation: up to BBD$250,000 or imprisonment for 10 years, or both
  • Failure to comply with a disclosure order: up to BBD$150,000 or imprisonment for five years, or both

Purpose of Penalties

The penalties are designed to serve as a deterrent to individuals and corporate entities alike, and to encourage transparency and accountability in public life.

Key Anti-Bribery and Corruption Legislation

  • Prevention of Corruption Act, 2021-24
  • Anti-Corruption and Anti-Terrorism Agency Act, 2021-5
  • United Nations Convention Against Corruption (adopted October 31, 2003)

Penalties for Individuals

  • Bribery: up to BBD$1,500,000 or imprisonment for 15 years, or both
  • Tipping off, falsifying, concealing, destroying or disposing of anything relevant to an investigation: up to BBD$250,000 or imprisonment for 10 years, or both
  • Failure to comply with a disclosure order: up to BBD$150,000 or imprisonment for five years, or both

Penalties for Corporate Entities

The above penalties apply to all “persons” subject to the Act. Under the Money Laundering and Financing of Terrorism (Prevention and Control) Act, 2011-23, a person convicted of an indictable offense may not be licensed to carry on the business of a financial institution; existing licenses may also be revoked.

The introduction of these penalties is seen as a significant step forward in the fight against corruption and bribery in Barbados. The country has committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability, and good governance, and these penalties will help to achieve that goal.