Codes of conduct
The Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB) is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity and professionalism. Its Codes of Conduct set out the principles and rules that govern the behaviour of all those working for or on behalf of the Bank, ensuring that CEB activities are carried out in a manner that upholds public trust and reflects its mandate and values.
What the Codes of Conduct do
The Codes of Conduct define the ethical framework applicable at the CEB and:
- establish clear expectations regarding integrity, independence, impartiality and professionalism;
- promote transparency, accountability and respect in the workplace
- help prevent conflicts of interest, misuse of position and reputational risks
- provide guidance on issues such as confidentiality, gifts and advantages, external activities, dignity at work and reporting of misconduct.
They also inform the CEB’s organs, stakeholders and the general public of the standards of conduct they are entitled to expect.
Who the Codes apply to
The CEB has adopted dedicated Codes of Conduct tailored to the specific roles and responsibilities of:
- the Governor, Vice-Governors, staff members and contractual collaborators
- the Chairpersons and members of the Collegial Organs (Governing Board and Administrative Council)
- the members of the Auditing Board.
Together, these Codes ensure a consistent ethical framework across all levels of the Bank, while taking into account the particular functions exercised by each group.
How compliance is ensured
Compliance with the Codes of Conduct is overseen by the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer. All persons subject to a Code are required to adhere to its provisions and to seek guidance in case of doubt. The Codes are complemented by mechanisms for reporting concerns in good faith, in line with the CEB’s Whistleblowing Policy, and breaches may lead to appropriate corrective or disciplinary measures.
The current Codes of Conduct adopted in 2021 replaced earlier versions adopted in 2009 and reflect developments in international best practices and the Bank’s legal and institutional framework.
➡️ Read the Codes of Conduct (PDFs)