An evaluation of the reporting on ethics and integrity of selected listed motor vehicle companies

Abstract

Transparency in reporting has become very important and various stakeholders expect companies to disclose sensitive information, such as ethical aspects, integrity and anticorruption information. Any indication of corruption can be detrimental when trying to attract foreign investors to invest in a country. These disclosure practices could place remarkable pressure on a company that needs to portray a positive image to their stakeholders. The main objective of this research was to evaluate the reporting on ethics, integrity and anticorruption of companies in the motor vehicle manufacturing sector. Content analysis was used as the research method. A checklist was compiled based on the different frameworks and country requirements. The results of the evaluation indicate that companies understand the importance of the governance aspects such as ethics and integrity, and some also provide training on the relevant codes and policies. However, disclosure on corruption-related incidents within the companies is substandard and insufficient information is provided in the reports.

Artificial Intelligent Systems and Ethical Agency

“…Moreover, there is an ambiguity in how companies promote ethical practices in their organizations. Research in the manufacturing sector, for example, shows that though the companies are aware of the importance of ethics in governance, the reporting of unethical activities in the companies is poor (Smit, 2017) and there are actual companies themselves engaged in unethical practices (Einde et al, 2019). Expecting an ethical product in such an environment is unlikely.…”

Validity of the Corporate Ethical Virtue Model (Cev) in a South African Context: A Case Study

“…Von Eck's (2016) statement "Ethics is on the decline", is evident across the globe (Kaptein, 2015;Smit & Bierman, 2017). South Africa, specifically, is characterised by unethical behaviour, in both the public and private sectors.…”

“…All these initiatives are aimed at the long-term sustainability of organisations, emphasising sound management practices in the pursuit of profits, fairness towards people (broader society) and respect for the environment. Business ethics, in particular, is receiving increasing attention as organisations are being urged and pressured by stakeholders, through legislation and supervision, to allocate time and resources to improve and ensure ethical practices (Timonen & Luoma-Aho, 2010;Majluf & Navarrete, 2011;Smit & Bierman, 2017).…”