Download Corporate Social Responsibility and Legal Mandates in Google's Code of Conduct and more Thesis Financial Market in PDF only on Docsity! C206 CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY Google's Code of Conduct is lacking in philanthropic responsibilities. In sections I and VI economic responsibilities are emphasized with the importance of delivering great products and services. Sections II covers ethical responsibilities such as supporting each other by providing a fair workplace and avoid doing harm by maintaining a safe workplace. Section VII goes over legal responsibilities and complying with the law. Both ethical and legal responsibilities are covered in Section III. This area reviews course of action to avoid situations that involve ethical or legal conflicts of interest. The only area Google’s code of conduct is lacking is philanthropic responsibilities, there is no mention of donating time, money, products or services to promote human welfare. LEGAL MANDATES Google discussed in length on obeying the laws and government regulations. The code of conduct does not lack in explaining legal compliance and prohibitions. Examples of prohibited conduct is included as well as activities that may be considered illegal. The Code of Conduct reviews major laws and regulations that pertain to Google so that employees understand how they apply to their work. The laws that are emphasized are Insider Trading Laws, Trade Controls, Competition Laws, Anti-bribery Laws and U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. The Code of Conduct directs employees to consult the specific policies that refer to these laws such as: Google’s Antitrust Policy, Google’s Insider Trading Policy, Revenue Recognition Policy, Google’s Anti-Bribery and Government Ethics Policy. It is stated that any involvement in illegal activities could result in termination of employment, imprisonment as well as penalties and fines for Google. Multiple safeguards are mentioned to ensure compliance with legal, accounting, tax, and government regulations are being followed. Google offers two resources: Legal and Ethics & Compliance to assist employees who are uncertain about regulations or legal mandates. Importance is placed on keeping detailed records of business and financial transactions. Google has a Records Retention Team and Records Retention Policy with guidelines for legal requirements and accounting rules. These two resources are crucial in case records are needed for a litigation, audit or investigation. DEVELOPMENT OF AN ETHICAL CULTURE Google indicates at the beginning of the Code of Conduct their standards of ethical business conduct. The expectation is that all employees and Board members to follow the Code. The expectation is extended to Google contractors, consultants, and temporary services. 3. Analyze whether the code of ethics facilitates the development of an ethical culture. Open communication, clear, consistent, credible, RAISING AN ETHICAL CONCERN There is a 4. Explain how an employee would raise an ethical concern in this company. AVAILABLE RESOURCES There are multiple resources available to Google employees with any ethical or code- related questions or concerns. Employees are expected to be fully familiar with law, regulations, and Google policies that pertain to their job. A Google employee can refer to the many policies available or contact their manager for additional guidance. If the employee and manager need further guidance they can contact the Legal or Ethics & Compliance department. There is also a Ethics & Compliance Helpline and Human Resources representative available. I would feel most confident and comfortable with contacting the Ethics & Compliance Helpline. There is a no
