SUMMARY:

Central Bank of Uruguay (BCU) has launched a new digital channel for handling complaints and concerns related to acts of bribery.
 

INFORMATION:

According to its definition, a bribe is “the offer, promise, delivery, acceptance or solicitation of an undue advantage of any value, financial or non-financial, directly or indirectly, in violation of applicable law, as an inducement or reward to influence the performance of a person's duties.”

This system, developed with STATUM technology, is characterized for being completely digital and accessible from any device with internet connection, making it easier for citizens to report suspicions anonymously and securely.

Formalized on October 2, 2024 by board resolution, the complaint reporting channel is part of the update of BCU's Anti-Bribery Management System Policy, aligned with the international standard ISO 37001:2016.

The measure marks a milestone in the digitization of its services aimed at governance and public trust.

An innovative tool backed by a strategic resolution

The channel's launch responds to the objectives set out in the resolution approved by the BCU's Board of Directors, which ratifies its commitment to combat bribery and promote an ethical environment in all its operations.

The resolution also highlights its importance as part of a comprehensive system that seeks to prevent and manage irregularities, “at the highest ethical level and in strict compliance with current rules and regulations”.

The channel is accessible from the BCU's official website and is designed to guarantee the anonymity of the person filing a report.

Each user who files a report receives a unique code that allows them to follow up the case without having to identify themselves.

This technological solution facilitates the collection of accurate and detailed information on the facts reported and strengthens the tools available for the detection and management of illicit acts.

Details of the procedure and the reporting process

The digital form allows citizens to submit reports related to possible acts of bribery in a structured and efficient manner.

Those reporting can detail the facts with precision, indicating dates, places, persons involved and, if possible, provide estimates of the financial values involved.

In addition, they have the option of attaching supporting documentation, such as e-mails, records or photographs to support their complaint.

The process is designed so that each report is evaluated under strict conditions of confidentiality. 

Once submitted, BCU Compliance Department, which leads the Anti-Bribery Management System, analyzes the information. In the event that the reported person belongs to this unit, the investigation is referred to the General Secretary's Office to ensure impartiality and objectivity.

If the person submitting the complaint chooses to include an e-mail address, the system will send updates on the status of the complaint.

In the event that the information submitted is insufficient to move forward with the investigation, the complainant will be notified to provide additional details within five working days; otherwise, the case will be dismissed.  

Protection for complainants and penalties in cases of malicious intent.

BCU guarantees absolute protection, ensuring that every person who files a report will not be subject to retaliation as long as they act in good faith. This commitment is backed by the Anti-Bribery Policy and internal procedures that seek to encourage citizen participation in the fight against corruption.

However, the Bank also stresses that it will not accept reports made maliciously or with reckless intent. False or bad faith reports will be dismissed, and their authors may face sanctions in accordance with the regulations in force.

A step forward in BCU's culture of integrity

This digital channel not only reinforces existing reporting mechanisms, but is also a key pillar in BCU's strategy to promote an institutional culture based on ethics and transparency. The Anti-Bribery Management System Policy, approved along with this launch, establishes clear guidelines to prevent, detect and act upon any hint of bribery, and involves all of the Bank's stakeholders, from its officers to its strategic allies.

STATUM's participation in the implementation of this technological solution reaffirms its ability to develop modern tools that adapt to the needs of the public sector. This progress emphasizes BCU's commitment to innovation and continuous improvement, which strengthens the public's confidence in its management processes.

Impact and projection of the initiative

With this tool, the Central Bank of Uruguay takes a significant step forward in its mission to ensure integrity in its operations and relationships. The digital channel not only facilitates the detection and prevention of acts of bribery, but also positions the BCU as a benchmark in the region in terms of ethical governance and transparency.