Fighting foreign bribery

Foreign bribery distorts markets, undermines fair competition and diverts resources away from sustainable economic development. Preventing this crime helps build trust in institutions, encourages responsible corporate behaviour and creates a more level playing field for companies operating internationally.

The OECD Anti-Bribery Convention is the only international instrument that tackles foreign bribery. Established in 1999, it requires its 46 Parties to criminalise the bribery of foreign public officials and to detect, investigate, prosecute, and sanction offenders. Uniquely, it focuses on the “supply side” of bribery - the individuals and companies that offer, promise or pay bribes in international business transactions. Together, the Convention's Parties account for over two-thirds of global exports and almost 90% of outward foreign direct investment.

The OECD Anti-Bribery Convention is supported by a mandatory and rigorous peer-review monitoring system, which is carried out by the OECD Working Group on Bribery. Countries are regularly assessed against their commitments and receive recommendations to strengthen implementation.

Since the Convention entered into force, more than 500 individuals and companies have been sanctioned for foreign bribery offences, helping to drive lasting changes in business practices worldwide.

The 2021 OECD Anti-Bribery Recommendation complements the Convention by strengthening guidance in areas such as corporate compliance, non-trial resolutions and whistleblower protection.

Crises, shifts in economic, political and social landscapes, climate change, new technologies and other sources of disruption can create environments prone to bribery risks. Understanding these risks and sharing insights and best practices enables countries to anticipate and address emerging bribery threats.

The OECD publishes thematic studies and good practices relevant to the fight against foreign bribery. These studies can be used by researchers, governments, law enforcement authorities and international organisations to improve the effectiveness of anti-bribery policies and measures.

Over the last decade, countries have strengthened their efforts to address transnational corruption to reduce the cost of doing business, promote a level playing field and attract investment. The OECD’s global and regional networks and outreach on anti-bribery provide a space for dialogue and offer targeted technical assistance and support.