Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy

Policy Statement

ANNU is fully committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and ethical conduct across all its academic, administrative, and operational activities. The University enforces a zero-tolerance approach to bribery and corruption in all forms, recognizing their harmful impact on institutional trust, governance, and society at large. All university stakeholders are expected to act with professionalism, fairness, and accountability, in full compliance with applicable laws, including Palestinian anti-corruption legislation.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to prevent, detect, and address all forms of bribery and corruption within the University. It establishes clear principles and procedures to ensure that all activities and decisions are conducted ethically and transparently.

Scope

This policy applies to all members of the ANNU community, including staff, faculty, students, management, contractors, suppliers, partners, and any individuals or entities associated with the University’s operations and projects.

Definitions

• Bribery: The offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting—directly or indirectly—of anything of value to influence decisions, actions, or outcomes related to University functions or responsibilities.

• Corruption: The misuse or abuse of entrusted authority, position, or institutional resources for personal or improper gain, including bribery and other unethical practices. 

Governance and Oversight

ANNU has established a strong governance framework to ensure effective implementation and oversight of the policy, including:

• Board of Trustees and University President: Oversight is led by the University President and four Board members, ensuring ethical governance, financial accountability, and transparency

• Internal Audit and Control Department, responsible for monitoring financial compliance and integrity. 

• Administrative Audit and Control Department, ensuring adherence to institutional procedures and ethical standards across all operations. 

Core Principles

• Zero tolerance for bribery and corruption 

• Accountability and integrity in all operations 

• Compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks 

• Fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity in decision-making 

• Protection of institutional reputation and public trust 

Transparency and Public Commitment

The University demonstrates a strong commitment to transparency by publicly sharing its anti-bribery and anti-corruption principles, policies, and ethical standards through its official website and institutional platforms. This openness ensures that all stakeholders—students, staff, partners, and the wider community—are informed of the University’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption. By making these commitments visible and accessible, ANNU reinforces accountability, builds public trust, and promotes a culture of integrity across all its operations.

Reporting and Complaints Procedure

ANNU provides secure and confidential channels for reporting suspected cases of bribery or corruption. The University guarantees protection for whistleblowers against retaliation and ensures that all reports are investigated promptly, fairly, and independently. Confirmed violations result in strict disciplinary measures, which may include termination of employment or legal action.

Review and Monitoring

The policy undergoes continuous monitoring and is formally reviewed every three years to ensure ongoing improvement and alignment with evolving legal requirements and international best practices.

Effective Date: December 12, 2018

Previous Update: March 7, 2022

Latest Update: Jun 23, 2025