Global Code of Conduct

Bertelsmann published the Bertelsmann Code of Conduct in 2008 as a binding guideline for law-abiding and responsible conduct within the company.

www.ethics.bertelsmann.com



The Bertelsmann Code of Conduct is the first global code of conduct that applies to all Bertelsmann employees. "It is ultimately the logical extension of a tried and tested form of corporate governance that has evolved over decades, which attaches great importance to issues of ethics and corporate responsibility, in particular," as Hartmut Ostrowski, former Chairman & CEO of Bertelsmann, wrote in a letter to Bertelsmann employees.

Our Code Of Conduct

The Bertelsmann Code of Conduct follows international standards. It is based on ethical principles, legal requirements and Bertelsmann’s own in-house rules and regulations. At the same time, the Code of Conduct is grounded in the Bertelsmann Essentials, which convey our goals and basic values. The Bertelsmann Code of Conduct consists of 20 principles that govern corporate responsibility, workplace conduct, business and financial transactions, and media and technology. The 20 principles address specific topics such as data protection, anti-corruption and independent and responsible reporting in Bertelsmann’s published media.

Training and whistleblowing scheme for employees

To familiarize our employees worldwide with the Code of Conduct, the Ethics & Compliance Department has developed an interactive training program in 10 languages, which is available in both web-based and traditional formats. The training was implemented in June 2009, and offers employees a fun and engaging opportunity to learn about secure and effective ways to raise concerns, seek advice and ask questions about Bertelsmann’s compliance risks, including potentially illegal business practices. Colleagues learn that they can communicate with the responsible staff members at the Corporate Center Bertelsmann, contact the web-based whistleblowing system www.reportconcerns.com, or speak in confidence with an ombudsperson.