CODE OF ETHICS
1. Introduction
Our Code of Ethics sets out the standards of behavior and ethical principles that all employees, contractors, and stakeholders of Galenica are expected to uphold. This code guides our actions and decisions, ensuring that we operate with integrity, respect, and professionalism.
2. Compliance with Laws and Regulations
Galenica undertakes to fully comply with all the laws and regulations that apply to its activities, irrespective of the country where they are conducted. We comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards in our respective fields. This includes but is not limited to laws related to labor, health and safety, anti-discrimination, data privacy, intellectual property, anti-trafficking, anti-Bribery, anti-Corruption and environmental protection. We will not engage in any illegal or unethical activities that could harm our company, employees, clients, stakeholders, or the community. Each employee is responsible for finding out about the laws, regulations and standards that apply to their field of activity from their superiors and for seeking the opinion of the management teams concerned when necessary.
3. Integrity and Honesty
We act with integrity and honesty in all our interactions, both within the organization and with external parties. We maintain the highest ethical standards, including being truthful, transparent, and accountable for our actions.
4. Respect and Diversity
We treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and fairness, regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. We foster an inclusive and diverse environment where different perspectives are valued and everyone feels welcomed and respected. Any discrimination by any employee in respect of recruitment, remuneration, promotion or treatment based on gender, race, nationality, age, religion or political and/or trade union opinions is prohibited within Galenica.
5. Professionalism
We conduct ourselves in a professional manner at all times, adhering to the highest standards of competence, diligence, and ethical behavior in our work. We strive for continuous improvement and seek to enhance our skills and knowledge to better serve our stakeholders.
6. Confidentiality and Data Privacy
We respect and safeguard the confidentiality of sensitive information entrusted to us by our stakeholders, including clients, employees, and partners. We will not disclose or misuse such information for personal gain or to the detriment of others. We handle personal data in accordance with applicable data protection laws and maintain appropriate security measures to protect such information. Employees are also likely to have access to confidential information which belongs to suppliers, customers and or partners of the Company. Each employee concerned must ensure that they respect and maintain the confidentiality of such information as if such information belonged to Galenica. Confidentiality obligations relating to the confidential information belonging to third parties apply to every employee and remain in effect after their employment contract has ended.
7. Conflict of Interest
It is the responsibility of all employees to contribute to the Company’s legitimate interests. Consequently, any decision taken by an employee must be guided solely by the interests of the Galenica and with no regard for their own interests. We avoid any actual or perceived conflicts of interest that may compromise our objectivity, impartiality, or professional judgment. If a conflict of interest arises, we will disclose it promptly and take appropriate actions to mitigate or remove the conflict.
8. Environmental Responsibility
We will strive to minimize our environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. We will comply with environmental laws and regulations, conserve resources, reduce waste generation, and support initiatives that protect and preserve the environment.
9. Safety and Well-being
We prioritize the safety, health, and well-being of our employees, clients, and the community. We provide a safe and healthy work environment, promote work-life balance, and take appropriate measures to prevent accidents, injuries, and occupational hazards.
10. Prohibition of child labour
Galenica undertakes to comply with the legal minimum age for admission to employment applicable in the countries where Galenica conducts its business. The employment of children is prohibited.
11. Company Property
All Company property – including desks, storage areas, work areas, lockers, file cabinets, computer systems, office telephones, cellular telephones, laptops, tablets, modems, facsimile machines, duplicating machines, copying machines, cars and vehicles – must be used properly and maintained in good working order.
12. National and international trade
We ensure that each of the national or transnational transactions we handle is legal and compliant, making sure that the nature of the products and their purpose or use are not restricted or banned and ensuring that all the required authorisations and licenses have been obtained. Each employee involved in transnational commercial operations should know and stay abreast of developments in national and international laws and regulations that apply to international trade in merchandise and/or services, particularly regarding customs and export control.
13. Fair competition
Galenica complies with competition law which aims to guarantee fair and healthy competition between the economic players in its sector and to prevent and indeed punish any practice which would distort or impede such competition. Therefore, employees must not engage in behaviour which in any way aims to distort, restrict or impede free competition.
14. Anti-Money Laundering
Galenica undertakes to comply with Anti-Money Laundering Laws and Regulations. Galenica keeps accurate books and records. All books and records (accounts, invoices, debit notes, and other documents supporting payments) must be kept in reasonable detail to accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets. All books and records must be kept: • Clear • Transparent • Include the exact qualification for the payment due
15. Reporting Violations
We encourage all employees to report any unethical behavior, violations of this Code of Ethics, or any concerns they may have. We will ensure that reports are handled confidentially and without fear of retaliation. Whistleblowers will be protected from any adverse consequences for reporting in good faith.
Adherence to this Code of Ethics is a fundamental expectation for all employees. By upholding these principles, we contribute to a culture of trust, integrity, and ethical conduct, which is essential for our long-term success and the well-being of our stakeholders.