Global Ethics Office Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Wal-Mart create the Global Ethics Office? The office was formed to promote Wal-Mart’s ethical culture to all our of stakeholders around the globe. Stakeholders include our associates, customers, shareholders, suppliers, and other companies and individuals we do business with. We serve as a guide and resource for ethical decision-making.
We provide a confidential reporting system for violations of our Statement of Ethics, and oversee any resulting investigations of those violations. Our office also leads a continuing education program for our associates to help sustain our ethical culture. Does the Global Ethics Office replace Wal-Mart's long standing Open Door Policy? No, our Open Door Policy is the most direct way for any associate to voice any concern or issue. The Global Ethics Office provides an alternative, confidential resource for answering questions or reporting a suspected ethics violation. What is the difference between an Open Door issue and an ethics issue? The Open Door is available to raise both ethics and non-ethics related issues. An ethics issue is one that pertains to our Statement of Ethics. Are contacts with the Global Ethics Office confidential? Yes, if you request confidentiality, we will make every effort to honor your request. Are contacts with the Global Ethics Office anonymous? Yes, if you request anonymity, we will make every effort to honor your request. In some cases, however, it may be necessary to reveal your identity to fully investigate the concern. Who may contact the Global Ethics Office? We encourage all of our stakeholders to contact the Global Ethics Office with questions or to voice their ethics concerns. Who answers the Global Ethics Helpline? The Global Ethics Helpline is available to associates around the world 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is equipped to handle most local languages. The helpline is staffed by an organization not affiliated with Wal-Mart, and to the extent possible (and in conformity with local regulations), callers may not have to give their name. In all cases, associate privacy will be respected to the fullest extent possible under the law.
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