MBC Code of Conduct & Ethics

Code of Conduct and Ethics Table of Contents Page Introduction ...................................................................................................................................................4 What is a Code of Conduct?..........................................................................................................................4 Purpose of the Code of Conduct and Ethics ..................................................................................................4 Benefits of adopting a Code of Conduct and Ethics .......................................................................................5 Statement of Values ......................................................................................................................................5 (i) Integrity...............................................................................................................................................5 (ii) Objectivity .......................................................................................................................................5 (iii) Accountability..................................................................................................................................6 (iv) Transparency ..................................................................................................................................6 (v) Impartiality ......................................................................................................................................6 (vi) Openness .......................................................................................................................................6 (vii) Honesty...........................................................................................................................................6 (viii) Justice.............................................................................................................................................6 (ix) Selflessness....................................................................................................................................6 Respect for the Law and MBC Policies..........................................................................................................7 Relationship among MBC Employees ...........................................................................................................7 Responsibility towards the Public and Stakeholders......................................................................................8 Compliance with the Codes of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) ...............................................9 Personal and Professional Behaviour and Standards....................................................................................9 (a) Professionalism...............................................................................................................................9 (b) Respect for the rights of others........................................................................................................9 (c) Attendance and Punctuality...........................................................................................................10 (d) Use of Alcohol/Drugs and Smoking ...............................................................................................10 (e) Uniforms/Appearance and Dress Code .........................................................................................10 (f) Health and Safety at work .................................................................................................................10 (g) Covid-19 Safety Precautions at work.............................................................................................11 Equal Opportunity .......................................................................................................................................11 Political Impartiality .....................................................................................................................................11 Accurate Reporting and Accounting ............................................................................................................11 Adopting Green Practices............................................................................................................................12 Proper Use and Protecting MBC Resources................................................................................................12 Page | 2

Code of Conduct and Ethics Confidentiality .............................................................................................................................................13 Disclosure of Information.............................................................................................................................13 Communication with the Press and Social Media ........................................................................................13 Conflict of Interests......................................................................................................................................13 Soliciting and Acceptance of Gifts and Other Benefits .................................................................................14 Outside Employment ...................................................................................................................................14 Post Separation Employment ......................................................................................................................15 Internal Reporting of Malpractices ...............................................................................................................15 Compliance and Enforcement of the Code of Conduct and Ethics ...............................................................16 Page | 3

Code of Conduct and Ethics Introduction The Mauritius Broadcasting Corporation (MBC) is a corporate body established under the MBC Act. It is the national public service broadcaster for Mauritius, Rodrigues and Agalega Island. The MBC shall provide independent and impartial broadcasting services which cater for the aspirations, needs and tastes of the population in matters of information, education, culture and entertainment. Employees should maintain the highest standard of integrity in their dealings with members of the public, the business community and other government officials. Therefore, to help, guide and align the standards of behaviour expected of employees in their working environment, there is a need to adopt a code of conduct and ethics. What is a Code of Conduct? A Code of Conduct is a comprehensive statement of the guiding principles an institution expects its staff to follow. It sets out the ethical tone in the organisation. The Code of Conduct and Ethics of the MBC (‘the Code’) has been set on the guidelines recommended in (i) the Model Code for Parastatal Bodies developed by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and (ii) the Code of Ethics for Public Officers developed by the Ministry of Civil Service & Administrative Reforms. Purpose of the Code of Conduct and Ethics The purpose of this Code of Conduct and Ethics is to provide all employees of the MBC with guidance on the standards of correct conduct and behaviour expected of them in performing their duties and in their dealings with colleagues and any other stakeholders. A code of conduct should be tailored to the needs and values of the organisation. The Code complements existing legislation and rules in force in the service and its guiding principles are designed to maintain and enhance values that inspire trust and confidence in the integrity of officers. Page | 4

Code of Conduct and Ethics Benefits of adopting a Code of Conduct and Ethics The adoption of a code of conduct benefits an institution in the following ways: ● Sets out the core values of the organisation; ● Defines acceptable and unacceptable behaviour expected of staff in an organisation; ● Helps to solve ethical dilemmas met at work and when faced with pressure to consider what is right and wrong. ● Strengthens the moral and courage of officers; ● Provides officers with a guide to maintain high level of public confidence and trust in the organisation; ● Acts as a deterrent to corrupt activities; and ● It is an important management tool which can positively shape the culture of an organization and to benchmark the conduct of an officer during appraisals. Statement of Values Officers are expected to observe the highest standards of ethical conduct in their workplace. They should observe the following core values and principles in their actions and daily operations: (i) Integrity Officers should demonstrate a total commitment to the highest personal and professional standards. They should work above one’s own personal interests. This will help them gain the respect and confidence of all the stakeholders. (ii) Objectivity Officers should ensure that the merit principles prevail and are seen to prevail in their day to day decisions. Page | 5

Code of Conduct and Ethics (iii) Accountability Officers should develop a sense of ownership and belongingness to whatever responsibility they are being assigned and be fully accountable for their decisions and actions. They must submit themselves to whatever scrutiny appropriate to the Corporation. (iv) Transparency Transparency refers to the openness and access to relevant information and communicated to stakeholders at the appropriate time. Officers should carry out all activities, operations and decision- making processes (procurement, news coverage, etc) in a transparent manner where decisions are properly documented and justified. (v) Impartiality Officers should provide an independent and impartial broadcasting services of information, education, culture and entertainment and they should refrain from expressing its own opinion and observe neutrality and impartiality on (i) current affairs; (ii) matters of public policy; or (iii) matters of controversy relating to culture, politics, religion or any other subject. (vi) Openness Officers should be as open as possible on all decisions and actions that they take. They should provide justifications for their decisions whenever requested. (vii) Honesty Officers should be truthful and act in good faith in all their decisions and actions. (viii) Justice Officers should adhere to the principles of natural justice. (ix) Selflessness Officers should avoid seeking personal benefits for themselves, their families or friends through their official positions. Page | 6

Code of Conduct and Ethics Respect for the Law and MBC Policies  Officers should fully comply with all the governing and applicable laws, rules and regulations of Mauritius.  Officers should implement MBC’s Board decision, policies and directives, adhere to the MBC Act, and to other rules related to broadcasting such as the IBA’s regulations, the MCML, the Media Trust etc.  Officers should implement the policies and decisions of the Government of the day in an objective manner.  Officers should refrain from unlawful and offensive behaviour against the Corporation where its finances, partnerships or public image are concerned.  The Corporation will not condone the activities of employees who violate any laws and policies.  When employees are uncertain about the application or interpretation of any legal requirements, they should seek guidance from their supervising officers. Relationship among MBC Employees  The attitude of collegiality should emanate from top management and cascade down across the organisation. Management should ensure that a healthy and conducive working environment prevails to the satisfaction of one and all.  Officers should not cause embarrassment, distress, harassment (physical, sexual, mental or emotional), bully or otherwise intimidate their colleagues.  Officers should not discriminate directly or indirectly or by victimisation against another officer.  They should treat their colleagues with respect and dignity.  There should be cooperation in their dealings with one another and should work as a team to achieve the goals of the organisation. Page | 7

Code of Conduct and Ethics  They should seek authorization from Superior Officer/ Head of Department, wherever applicable. Responsibility towards the Public and Stakeholders  Officers should in all circumstances be polite, courteous, respectful, helpful, professional and fair in their dealings with the general public and other stakeholders.  They should strive to maintain and strengthen public trust and confidence by demonstrating the highest standards of professional competence, efficiency and effectiveness.  Officers need to provide accurate and consistent information to help the public and stakeholders understand their rights and obligations.  Officers should take care not to violate the Corporation's confidentiality, applicable laws and sensitivities to any stakeholder.  Officers should also respect the confidential nature of certain information disclosed to them by members of the public for procedural purposes.  All dealings with our business partners should be executed on the basis of integrity, quality, credibility, sustainability and taking into consideration of anti-corruption practices.  The MBC should work in collaboration with union members and associations to promote welfare of employees. The Management has a duty to deal fairly when involved in collective bargaining processes with representatives of employees.  The MBC should ascertain that suppliers are paid on time and according to agreed terms of trade. Page | 8

Code of Conduct and Ethics Compliance with the Codes of the Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Officers should adhere to the following Codes of the IBA and which may be viewed on the website https://iba.mu :- 1. Code of Conduct for Broadcasting Services 2. The Code of Ethics 3. Code of Advertising Practice Personal and Professional Behaviour and Standards (a) Professionalism  Officers, in the performance of their duties, shall demonstrate a high degree of professionalism and carry out their roles with dedication and commitment towards the MBC and its core values.  Officers should work with their utmost skill and diligence by using their knowledge and expertise.  Officers should behave towards the Board members, Management, colleagues, customers and the public in general with civility and respect and without partiality or preference.  Officers should provide the Board and Management with reliable and accurate information. (b) Respect for the rights of others Officers should not discriminate against any person on ground of sex, marital status, colour, race, ethnic or national origin, age, disability, political opinion, occupation, status, sexual orientation, religious or ethical beliefs. Page | 9

Code of Conduct and Ethics (c) Attendance and Punctuality All employees shall have a good attendance record and shall be punctual in attending duty. They should perform efficiently their duties and utilise their stipulated working time effectively. Officers must not absent ourselves from the place of work without permission. (d) Use of Alcohol/Drugs and Smoking MBC is a ‘no smoking zone’, consequently smoking is not allowed anywhere within the MBC’s premises. Officers should not make use of or be under the influence of alcohol while on duty. They should ensure that the consumption of drugs or other substances do not adversely affect their ability to conduct their duties, which may result in unsatisfactory work performance or adversely affect the safety of others. In addition, officers should not engage in gambling and private activities by any means at the workplace. (e) Uniforms/Appearance and Dress Code Employees who are paid uniform allowance should wear their uniforms while on duty. Also, those who are provided with protection equipment should wear same while on duty. Officers should have a professional appearance, a good personal hygiene and dress in a decent and presentable way while in the workplace or while attending official assignments outside MBC, in order to project a positive image of the Corporation. (f) Health and Safety at work The MBC is committed to ensure that its facilities are safe for the employees and visitors. The priority is to provide employees with a safe and healthy working environment and conditions. Employees are responsible for the security of their site of work which should be kept clean and tidy and they should take all the necessary precautions to guard against fire, loss and theft. Officers must identify and report hazards promptly and supervisors must ensure that risks are eliminated or controlled in line with Health and Safety policy. Page | 10

Code of Conduct and Ethics (g) Covid-19 Safety Precautions at work Officers should adhere to the MBC COVID-19 protocol, which may be viewed on the website http://intra.mbc. However, the protocol may be subject to modifications in light with changing circumstances and as per the Government decisions. Equal Opportunity MBC is an equal opportunity employer. Opportunities for employment, promotion, training and access to benefits, facilities and services are based solely upon merits, abilities and ethics and not on the ‘status’ of the employees. MBC is committed to maintaining a supportive work environment where all employees can reach their full potential. Furthermore, all employees have a right to work in a safe working environment, free of threats, intimidation and physical harm. Political Impartiality Officers should observe political neutrality in their day to-day functions and avoid activities likely to impair, or seem to impair their political impartiality. Whatever be their own political beliefs, officers owe loyalty and should always serve both the MBC Management and the Government of the day. Officers should not use the Corporate resources or their positions to support any political party or activity. During a pre-election period, officers should exercise restraint in so far as the making of significant appointments or entering into major contracts or undertakings and exercise care with regards to expenditure. Accurate Reporting and Accounting Officers should record all payments and receipts in a true, fair, complete and accurate manner. Officers should comply with applicable laws, internal accounting and reporting guidelines and external financial and non-financial reporting standards and ensure that the information they give to their stakeholders such as suppliers, contractors, auditors, regulatory agencies and government bodies provides a true and fair view of its financial situation. Officers should never make a false or misleading statement or entry in any report, publication record or expense claim. Page | 11

Code of Conduct and Ethics Adopting Green Practices Officers should encourage a ‘green behaviour’ at work. Both policies and day to day activities should be in line with the best environmental and sustainable development practices. Green practices include efficient and effective use of paper, electricity, amenities such as air conditioning and water resources among others. Proper Use and Protecting MBC Resources  Every employee should play a leading role in ensuring security over the MBC assets. Every employee should ensure that assets and other facilities (such as transport, stationary, telephone, ICT equipment, audiovisual equipment, etc.) provided to them for official duty or function, are used strictly for those duties and for no other purpose.  Every employee should manage the company assets and resources effectively and efficiently. They should strive to obtain value for money and to avoid waste or extravagance in the use of the MBC resources.  Every employee should exercise care over the organisation’s equipment, vehicles or records in their possession or for which they are responsible.  Every employee should refrain from using IT systems for transmission of personal, unintended or illegal messages that may be perceived as insulting or offensive.  Officers should safeguard and protect MBC’s intellectual property rights such as our copyrights, trademarks, patents, domain names and related rights. Officers should also respect the intellectual property rights of third parties and to clarify any situation in case of doubt.  No property of the Corporation should be loaned, sold, taken or given away without the approval of the Board. Page | 12

Code of Conduct and Ethics Confidentiality Officers have a prime responsibility to ensure that confidential information is kept secret. Officers dealing with work of a confidential, restricted or secret nature shall under no circumstances communicate or divulge to any such information to any unauthorized person, orally or in writing, unless prior permission has been obtained from the Board or the Director General. Officers should continue to observe their duties of confidentiality even after they leave the service. Disclosure of Information No employee should give to any unauthorised person the whole or copy or any extract of any book, document or material of the Corporation whether in printed, photostatic, electronic, or any other form. Information should only be disclosed if required to do so by law or upon obtaining proper authority and approval. In these cases, the information disclosed should be factual and should not be altered in any way that would cause prejudice to the Corporation. As far as possible, officers reporting information under the law should not make any comment or give personal opinion on the information disclosed. Communication with the Press and Social Media No employee should give any individual or collective statement, interview or impart any information in connection with his/her employment or on any subject-matter connected with the MBC to the written press, radio or on the social media or to any unauthorised person without the written permission of the Director General. Conflict of Interests A conflict of interests is a situation where the private or personal interests of an officer compete or conflict with his official duties. Officers have a duty to disclose promptly, fully and in writing, any situation of conflict of interests and the nature of such interests. Page | 13

Code of Conduct and Ethics Where an officer or his relative or his associate has a personal interest in a decision of the public body, the officer shall not take part in the proceedings or vote or intervene in any manner whatsoever of that public body relating to such decision. Non disclosure of a situation of conflict of interests shall commit an offence under the Prevention of Corruption Act 2002. Soliciting and Acceptance of Gifts and Other Benefits Gratification means a gift, reward, discount, premium or other advantage, other than lawful remuneration. Gifts and benefits are anything of value which include but are not limited to meals, lodging, loans, cash, gratuity, favour, entertainment, fee, commission, favourable terms or discounts, services, equipment, prizes, products, transportation, use of vehicles or any other form of compensation or benefit. Officers should not solicit or accept gifts, rewards or benefits for themselves or for other persons which would in any way, influence or appear to influence business decisions in favour of any person or organisation with whom or with which the MBC has, or is likely to have, business dealings. All employees (including senior officers and managers) should not offer or give any advantage in any way connected with his position, unless lawfully authorised to do so. A Public Officer shall not seek to influence for private purposes any person or body, including other Public Officers, by misusing his official position or by offering with personal advantages. Instances of favoritism are to be avoided at all costs. An employee shall not allow himself to be put, or appear to be put, in a position of obligation to return a favour to any person or body. In case, a token of appreciation is offered to an officer, he should immediately report it to the institution in writing and request for the way the gift should be disposed. Outside Employment An employee is engaged in outside employment when he works for the MBC and also does paid part-time or casual work for another organisation. It includes operating a business, maintaining a professional practice or providing consultancy services to another person or organisation. Page | 14

Code of Conduct and Ethics Secondary employment may provide opportunities for corrupt practices where conflicts of interests may frequently give rise to use of confidential information obtained during the course of his/her current employment and to the misuse of plant, machinery, stationery, vehicles, office equipment, office supplies, etc. They should not accept employment or engage in activities which may conflict or interfere with the performance of their official duties. Therefore, officers should not be involved in any private work either for remuneration or otherwise unless prior approval has been obtained from the MBC. Post Separation Employment All employees have professional obligations to protect and strictly maintain confidentiality of all non public information/ details/ particulars obtained during the course of their employment and even after leaving the organization. Officers should not use their position to obtain opportunities for future employment. Former employees should not use, or take advantage of, confidential information obtained in the course of their official duties. All staff should be careful in their dealings with former employees of the Corporation and make sure that they do not give them, or appear to give them, favourable treatment or access to privileged information. Internal Reporting of Malpractices Any behaviour, which is perceived to be unprofessional, unethical, dishonest, illegal or suspicious, along with any evidence of favourable treatment or bribes should be immediately reported of such malpractices to Management or to the immediate superior. The MBC should take all the necessary measures to protect the identity of whistle blowers and ensure confidentiality of the report. Care should be taken not to indulge into reporting that is malicious, frivolous and meant to damage the reputation of the accused employee. Page | 15

Code of Conduct and Ethics Compliance and Enforcement of the Code of Conduct and Ethics Heads of Department and senior officers shall be responsible to communicate this Code of Conduct and Ethics and ensure that all their employees (permanent, contractual and freelancers) understand their obligations and strictly adhere to the values and principles contained in the code of conduct and ethics irrespective of their gender, grade and rank. It shall also apply to employees while they are on mission and working outside on sites for news coverage or doing Live or recorded programme - Outside Broadcast (OB). Depending upon the nature and seriousness of breaches, disciplinary actions may be taken against officers who do not comply with the provisions of this code. All employees should ensure that their personal conduct and behaviour are at all times professional and lawful. They should always act in the best interest of the Corporation. ************************************** Page | 16