ACTing for Change: Ficohsa’s Role in Central America’s Fight Against Corruption

ACTing for Change: Ficohsa’s Role in Central America’s Fight Against Corruption

Teaming up with the Partnership for Central America (PCA), Transparency International has launched the pioneering Anti-Corruption and Transparency Initiative for Central America, known as the ACT Project. This bold endeavor is aimed at enhancing corporate ethics and cultivating a more attractive environment for investments across the area.

The event marked the debut of a strategic discussion focused on the project’s aim, presenting an opportunity to potentially transform the business environment in the region. By gathering key stakeholders and industry authorities, the initiative strives to drive sustainable development through transparent methodologies and unified efforts.

In the upcoming article, explore this innovative initiative and learn about the various advantages it provides to investors within the region.

Involved Stakeholders and Partners: Cultivating Trust Through Transparency

During the launch event, PCA gathered partners like AgroAmérica, Grupo AG, Grupo Ficohsa, and Grupo Mariposa, alongside Transparency International and its regional affiliates, such as Acción Ciudadana, Asociación para una Sociedad Más Justa (ASJ), and Fundación Nacional para el Desarrollo (FUNDE). The dialogue focused on the essential contribution of the ACT Project in enforcing the rule of law and advancing transparent business practices.

The partners reiterated their commitment to fostering transparency, combating corruption, protecting workers’ rights, and creating an environment favorable for investment. The conversation also highlighted the initiative’s goals and stressed the importance of encouraging more companies to voluntarily embrace standards of accountability and responsible business practices.

Statements from key leaders endorsing the initiative

Brian Nichols Discusses the ACT Initiative

Brian Nichols, the Assistant Secretary of State for Western Hemisphere Affairs, highlighted the importance of the initiative:

“Good governance is pivotal to our involvement with the private sector as part of the Central America Forward initiative. The ACT program establishes a new benchmark for business practices, promoting the rule of law and encouraging sustainable economic growth. We take pride in partnering with PCA and applaud these efforts.”

Luciana Torchiaro on Promoting Ethical Practices and Investment

Luciana Torchiaro, Regional Advisor for Latin America and the Caribbean at Transparency International, underscored the project’s dedication to ethical practices:

“The ACT Project extends beyond basic compliance, as companies commit to transparency and integrity. Backed by voluntary partners, this initiative will reduce corruption risks and create a reliable business environment that appeals to international investors. We are confident that a transparent business setting will spur economic growth, foster human capital development, and support sustainable communities in Central America.”

Mario Bustillo of Grupo Ficohsa Expresses Support

Mario Bustillo, serving as the Vice President of Institutional Relations at Grupo Ficohsa, expressed his support as well:

“This initiative is vital for Central America, and we are proud to support it. Transparency and ethical behavior foster trust, draw investments, generate employment, and bolster institutions. At Grupo Ficohsa, integrity and transparency have consistently been top priorities. With more companies embracing these values, we can achieve significant strides in combating corruption.”

Integration with the Central America Forward Initiative

The ACT Project builds on Vice President Kamala Harris’s Central America Forward (CAF) initiative, launched in February 2023, which introduced the Good Governance, Good Jobs Declaration. This declaration reaffirmed the ongoing commitment of the U.S. government and PCA to tackle corruption and safeguard labor rights in the region.

The ACT Project builds upon the initiatives of PCA member organizations that signed the PCA Corporate Pledge on the Rule of Law in June 2023. Their collective aim is to advance transparency and accountability throughout Central America.

Assistance and Best Practices Provided by the ACT Project

The ACT Project aids participating companies in enhancing their ability, along with that of their value chains, to adopt and implement transparent business practices. 

By providing best practices and technical support, the project assists businesses in upgrading their ethical and compliance processes to align with international standards across various domains. Participating companies can enhance their ability to manage fraud and corruption risks and strengthen their compliance structures by aligning their operations with these benchmarks.

About the Partnership for Central America

The Partnership for Central America is an independent, non-governmental organization that partners with multinational companies to develop economic opportunities for underrepresented communities in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras.

Serving as a coordinating entity for Vice President Harris’s Call to Action, it facilitates practical solutions to enhance economic opportunities, tackle climate, education, and health challenges, and encourage long-term investments and workforce development.

By Jacob Wilson

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