Whereas Transparência Brasil is a nonpartisan and non-sectarian organization that is dedicated to educating and informing society, and whereas, in carrying out its mission, it must set standards of excellence, its members adopt the following

Vision Statement

For a democratic and just society, built on transparency, in which the fight against corruption is carried out effectively.

Mission Statement

To combat corruption in the country by addressing its root causes and improving institutions and social oversight mechanisms.

Core Values

• Nonpartisanship
• Courage
• Ethics
• Impartiality
• Independence
• Justice
• Social Responsibility
• Transparency

Principles

• As coalition builders, we will work in cooperation with all individuals and groups, nonprofit organizations, companies, governments, and international bodies engaged in the fight against corruption, subject only to the policies and priorities established by Transparência Brasil’s governing bodies.
• We are committed to being open, honest, and accountable in our relationships with our colleagues and with everyone we work with.
• We will be democratic and non-sectarian in our work.
• We will vigorously and courageously condemn corruption and the payment of bribes wherever they are clearly identified.
• The positions we take will be based on in-depth, objective, and professional analyses derived from research using scientifically recognized methodology.
• The positions taken by the organization’s representatives, as well as its deliberative and administrative processes, will be conducted in a manner that fosters ample opportunity for debate and criticism.
• We will accept only financial assistance that does not compromise our ability to address all issues freely, comprehensively, and objectively.
• We will regularly publish accurate reports on our activities.
• We will encourage respect for freedom, fundamental rights, and a spirit of nonconformity regarding corruption.
• We will promote balance and diversity—particularly in terms of race and gender—in the composition of our governing bodies.

Rules of Conduct

• Only those who have not been convicted of corruption-related offenses will be admitted as members of the organization, and they must declare that they have no such convictions.
• Members shall not involve the organization’s name in electoral processes or in the appointment of officials to any of the three branches of government.
• Members shall conduct the organization’s business and contracting activities in a manner that prevents favoritism.
• Members shall not use their positions on the governing bodies of Transparência Brasil for their own benefit, or for the benefit of their organizations or companies.
• Members shall refuse to accept gifts, discounts, courtesies, privileges, or favors that influence or could be construed as influencing the performance of their duties at Transparência Brasil.

Mechanisms

• The organization shall have an Ethics Committee composed of 3 (three) members, 2 (two) of whom shall be elected by the Convention and 1 (one) appointed by the Deliberative Council, for a term of 2 (two) years. At a time to be determined by the Deliberative Council, the Committee will include a representative from the Secretariat, elected by the members of the Secretariat.
• The Ethics Committee shall be responsible for responding to inquiries from any person regarding the interpretation and practical application of this Code.
• The Commission shall conduct its activities in a manner that ensures ample opportunity for all parties involved in cases brought before it to present their arguments.
• After reviewing the cases referred to it, the Ethics Committee shall make a recommendation to the Deliberative Council, which shall be responsible for taking the measures it deems necessary.
• Decisions by the Deliberative Council on ethical matters may be appealed to the Convention.
• The Transparência Brasil Secretariat will have a Code of Ethics governing its activities, which will be drafted with the participation of its staff and may not deviate from this Code in any respect.

Sanctions

• The Ethics Committee may impose the following sanctions for noncompliance with this Code:
  • Warning
  • Suspension for up to 6 (six) months
  • Expulsion from membership
•  In the event that expulsion is imposed, the matter will be accompanied by a publication on the Transparência Brasil website.

General and Transitional Provisions

• The rules for membership in Transparência Brasil shall include a statement by the applicant acknowledging this Code and agreeing to comply with it.
• The first Ethics Committee will be elected by the Deliberative Council for a provisional term until the next Transparência Brasil Convention.
• The first Committee shall be responsible for submitting a proposal for rules of procedure governing its activities to the Deliberative Council for approval.
• Until the Secretariat has its own Code of Ethics, it will be subject to this Code.