Ethics charter

PREAMBLE

Our business network, established in Afrique, is committed to practising our profession with integrity, competence and dedication. This ethics charter reflects our commitment to the fundamental values that guide our professional practice and our relationships with clients, colleagues and society.

I. FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES

1.1 Independence

We preserve our independence of judgement and action in all circumstances, which is essential to the practice of our profession. We refuse any pressure or influence that may compromise our freedom of assessment.

1.2 Integrity

We practise our profession with honesty, probity and rectitude. We reject all forms of corruption and refrain from any behaviour that may damage the dignity of the profession.

1.3 Competence

We maintain a high level of legal expertise through continuous training and constant enhancement of our knowledge, particularly in the fields of Congolese and international business law.

II. CLIENT RELATIONS

2.1 Confidentiality

We strictly respect professional secrecy. No confidential information received from our clients will be disclosed without their explicit consent, except in cases provided for by law.

2.2 Loyalty and Prevention of Conflicts of Interest

We serve the legitimate interests of our clients with loyalty. We identify and manage potential conflicts of interest, reporting them immediately to the parties concerned and taking appropriate measures.

2.3 Transparency

We provide our clients with clear and precise information about our fees and the progress of their cases. Each client benefits from a detailed fee agreement and regular reporting.

III. SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY

3.1 Community Engagement

We dedicate a portion of our time and resources to pro bono legal services for disadvantaged communities and non-profit organisations in Africa.

3.2 Sustainable Development

Our firm is committed to adopting environmentally friendly practices, reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainable development in our daily operations.

3.3 Respect for Diversity

We value diversity and inclusion within our firm and in our professional relationships. We oppose all forms of discrimination based on ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age or any other personal characteristic.

IV. BUSINESS ETHICS

4.1 Anti-Corruption

We undertake to refuse any participation in acts of corruption or money laundering. We implement rigorous Know Your Client (KYC) procedures in accordance with international standards.

4.2 Responsible Investment

We advise our clients on the ethical, social and environmental implications of their investments in the DRC, and encourage responsible business practices.

4.3 Data Protection

We respect regulations relating to the protection of personal data and implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to ensure the security of entrusted information.

V. IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING

5.1 Internal Training

All members of our firm receive regular training on ethical principles and practices, as well as on relevant legislative and regulatory developments.

5.2 Reporting Mechanism

We maintain a confidential system for reporting ethical concerns, with a guarantee of non-retaliation for persons reporting potential violations in good faith.

5.3 Audit and Review

Our ethics charter is subject to annual review to ensure it remains relevant and compliant with international best practices and the African legal context.

This ethics charter reflects our commitment to practising our profession with the highest standards of integrity and competence, thereby contributing to the strengthening of the rule of law in Africa and the promotion of an ethical and transparent business environment.