University principles on corruption and bribery (16.2.5)

Széchenyi István University publicly commits itself to integrity, transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct through its Code of Conduct (Etikai Kódex), which applies to all members of the university community, including employees, researchers, academic staff, students, doctoral candidates, members of decision-making bodies, and employees of university-owned companies. The Code was adopted to promote the common values of the European Higher Education Area and the principles of the Bologna Declaration, while supporting the legally and morally unquestionable operation of the University. It also emphasizes respect for human dignity, human rights, fundamental freedoms, environmental responsibility, and the preservation of the University’s traditions and reputation. (Preamble; Scope of the Code, §1, p. 3)

A central element of the Code of Conduct is its clear commitment to preventing corruption and unethical behaviour. The University explicitly states that it condemns organized crime, corruption, and bribery. All university citizens are required to reject unfair or unlawful economic, material, and intellectual advantages. These provisions establish a clear institutional stance against corruption and demonstrate the University’s expectation that personal interests must not influence academic, administrative, research, or governance-related activities. (General Ethical Principles, §2, pp. 4-7)

The University also operates a robust conflict-of-interest framework that functions as an important anti-corruption mechanism. The Code requires all forms of conflicts of interest to be avoided and establishes procedures for their identification, disclosure, and management. Individuals whose personal, financial, family, political, emotional, or other interests could compromise their impartiality are required to declare such conflicts before participating in decision-making processes. Where a conflict exists, the individual concerned must be excluded from the relevant decision. These rules help ensure impartiality, fairness, and transparency in both daily operations and institutional governance. (Conflict of Interest, §8, pp. 16-17)

Compliance with the Code is supported by the University’s Ethics Committee (Etikai Bizottság), which serves as the primary institutional body responsible for safeguarding ethical standards. The Committee’s primary objective is to ensure that the ethical principles set out in the Code are reflected in everyday university practice and to promote the resolution of conflicts. The Ethics Committee was established under the Code of Conduct adopted by the Governing Board and operates as a formal institutional mechanism supporting ethical compliance with the University’s ethical standards. Through these activities, the Committee contributes to fostering a culture of integrity, fairness, and respect throughout the University.  (Ethics Committee, §9(1)-(2), p. 17)

The University has established a formal ethics procedure through which alleged violations of the Code may be reported, investigated, and resolved. University citizens may submit written complaints supported by evidence, and the Ethics Committee is empowered to review documentation, hear statements from the parties involved, collect additional evidence, and conduct hearings when necessary. Confidentiality requirements, procedural deadlines, and rights of appeal are built into the process to ensure fairness and due process. Where ethical misconduct is established, the Ethics Committee may recommend sanctions. (Ethics Procedure, §10, pp. 18-21; Remedy, §11, pp. 21-22)