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Acting correctly

Making ethical decisions

We always strive to make ethical decisions in accordance with our values. In case of doubt, we seek advice, for example by checking our internal regulations, and receive support from our supervisors, the Human Resources departments, or from the Compliance department and other responsible departments. For legal questions, we may contact the legal department directly.

A thoughtful man with glasses and a beard holds a tablet and rests his chin on his hand.

Internal regulations

For many topics addressed in this Code, specific internal regulations exist and must also be observed. In cases of perceived conflicts with local laws or other internal regulations, or if any other questions should arise, we contact the Compliance department, the legal department, or other responsible departments for guidance. We keep ourselves informed about current topics relating to this Code of Conduct, and we participate in applicable training.

I CARE

We have all been in situations where making an ethical decision is challenging. In these cases, our decision-making framework ‘I CARE’ offers guidance for choices that aren’t clear-cut. It helps us to understand the underlying reasons and outside influences affecting a decision, to make potential actions clear, and it encourages reflection for future learning.

Circular diagram showing I CARE steps: Identify, Consider, Act, Reflect for ethical decision making.

  • Identify

    Identify possible concerns or conflicts of interest keeping our values in mind.

    Conflicts with our values: What boundaries do I have to observe if I want to act according to our values?

    Conflicts of interest: Are there any incentives or relationships with Bosch externals influencing my actions?

  • Consider

    Consider the best interest of Bosch, external pressures and internal biases that might affect the choices you make.

    Situational influences: Do external pressures or internal biases influence my decision making?

    Company perspective: Do I have the best interest of Bosch and the Bosch values in mind?

  • Act

    Act by sharing concerns with supervisors or experts and document your decisions and reasoning.

    By elevating the issue: Sometimes it is best to make your concerns transparent to your manager or a subject matter expert.

    By documenting your decision: Do not forget to document your decision and why you have chosen this option.

  • Reflect

    Reflect on your learnings and consider how you can share your insights with others.

    On what you have learned: Once you have made a decision, take the time to review the path you have taken. The lessons learned will help your future decisions.

    On what you could share: What insights might be valuable to others and how might you share them?

  • Ethical decision making

    Ethical decision-making: Using the ‘I CARE’ model helps in making ethical decisions.

Additional Insight

Important other responsible departments include the Responsible Cs for a Compliance Area, such as Tax or Quality. Overview: link BGN / Compliance

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