Version: 1        Creation date: 1 July 2024        Last review date: 20 March 2026

1. Purpose

This policy aims to ensure compliance with ethical and legal standards by adopting the principle of zero tolerance against bribery and corruption in all activities of Near East University.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all academic and administrative staff, students, suppliers, business partners, and all other stakeholders associated with the University.

3. Principles

• Zero Tolerance: Any attempt at bribery or corruption is strictly prohibited, and necessary disciplinary and legal actions will be initiated.
• Ethical and Legal Compliance: All activities are conducted in accordance with applicable laws, institutional regulations, and ethical standards.
• Transparency and Accountability: Transparency in all operations and accountability to stakeholders are fundamental principles.
• Awareness and Education: Staff and students are regularly informed and trained on anti-bribery and anti-corruption practices.
• Reporting and Protection: The identity of individuals reporting suspicious situations is kept confidential, and they are protected from any form of discrimination or retaliation. Anonymous reporting is permitted where applicable.

4. Implementation and Responsibilities

• Management: The university administration is responsible for implementing and supervising this policy.
• Staff and Students: All individuals are responsible for acting in accordance with this policy.
• Business Partners: All parties conducting business with the University must comply with this policy.
• Oversight: The Quality and Accreditation Coordination Office is responsible for overseeing the implementation, monitoring, and continuous improvement of this policy across the institution.
• Ethics Committee: The University Ethics Committee supports the evaluation of ethical issues and provides advisory input on cases related to academic conduct, research integrity, and institutional practices, where applicable.

4.1 Enforcement and Disciplinary Actions
Any violation of this policy will result in appropriate disciplinary and/or legal actions in accordance with university regulations and applicable laws.

Sanctions may include termination of employment or contracts, academic penalties, and legal proceedings where necessary.

The University adopts a zero-tolerance approach and ensures that all cases are handled fairly, transparently, and consistently.

5. Whistleblowing and Reporting Mechanism

Near East University provides a confidential and secure reporting mechanism for individuals to report unethical, illegal, or improper conduct, including bribery and corruption.

All reports are treated with strict confidentiality, and whistleblowers are protected against any form of retaliation, discrimination, or adverse consequences. Anonymous reporting is permitted where applicable.

Reports can be submitted through designated communication channels, including:

Email: [email protected]

The University ensures that all reported cases are reviewed, assessed, and, where necessary, investigated in accordance with institutional policies and applicable laws and regulations.

This mechanism supports transparency, accountability, and the early identification of ethical risks within the institution.

6. Monitoring and Review

This policy is reviewed periodically, at least once every three years, to ensure alignment with international standards and institutional governance practices.

The last review was conducted on 20 March 2026.