Code of Conduct

of the Bulgarian Association of Anti-Financial Crime Experts (BAAFCE)

Introduction

The Bulgarian Association of Anti-Financial Crime Experts (BAAFCE) brings together professionals dedicated to the goal of protecting society from fraud, money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, and other financial crimes.

By adopting this Code of Conduct, the members of the Association accept common ethical and professional principles that define their behavior, actions, and public presence. The Code ensures trust, professionalism, and reputation—the core values upon which BAAFCE is built.

1. Integrity and Ethics

Members of BAAFCE:

• Act honestly, transparently, and responsibly in all situations.

• Avoid all forms of corruption, abuse, manipulation, or undue influence.

• Adhere to high standards of personal and professional ethics.

• Uphold public interests above personal or corporate goals.

• Maintain a good personal reputation worthy of the professional community.
  
  

2. Professionalism and Competence

We commit to:

• Maintaining up-to-date knowledge in the fields of anti-money laundering (AML), sanctions, fraud, and financial crimes.

• Developing our expertise through training, certifications, and the exchange of best practices.

• Representing the Association competently, reasonably, and with respect in public and media appearances.

• Complying with the professional standards of our organization and international practices.

• Adhering to globally recognized professional principles—impartiality, objectivity, confidentiality, and competence.
  
  

3. Respect, Equality, and Non-Discrimination

Every member undertakes to:

• Treat everyone with respect—members, partners, institutions, and citizens.

• Maintain an atmosphere of mutual trust, constructiveness, and professional dialogue.

• Prohibit all forms of discrimination, aggression, threats, or harassment.

• Encourage diverse points of view, cultural differences, and professional perspectives.
  
  

4. Confidentiality and Information Protection

Members of BAAFCE:

• Respect the confidentiality of information shared within the Association and its working groups.

• Do not disseminate sensitive, unverified, or confidential information.

• Use information only for professional purposes and within the framework of the law.

• Strictly comply with requirements for personal data protection and information security.
  
  

5. Cooperation and Professional Solidarity

We believe in community and knowledge. Therefore, we:

• Actively participate in the Association's initiatives, projects, and working groups.

• Share experience, best practices, and expertise with other members.

• Support colleagues and work toward creating a strong professional network.

• Assist in increasing public awareness regarding financial crimes and their associated risks.
  
  

6. Compliance with the Law and Regulatory Requirements

Members commit to:

• Complying with all applicable laws, regulations, and professional standards.

• Supporting efforts to improve the national regulatory framework.

• Promoting zero tolerance toward financial crimes.
  
  

7. Independence and Avoidance of Conflict of Interest

Every member guarantees:

• Impartiality and independence in their professional activities.

• An absence of actions that may lead to a conflict of interest.

• The timely and good-faith disclosure of potential conflicts.

• The avoidance of using BAAFCE membership for personal or corporate gain.
  
  

8. Ethical Communication and Public Behavior

Commitment to responsible communication:

• We communicate respectfully and professionally across all channels.

• We do not disseminate unverified, misleading, or manipulative information.

• We use social media in a manner that reflects the values of the Association.

• We align public appearances with the image, mission, and reputation of BAAFCE.
  
  

9. Public Mission and Contribution to Society

The Association and its members:

• Work to increase the financial and digital literacy of society.

• Support initiatives to reduce fraud, corruption, and abuse.

• Assist in building a transparent and sustainable environment in Bulgaria.

• Promote honesty, integrity, and good governance.
  
  

10. Accountability and Actions in Case of Violations

In the event of a violation:

• Members assume personal responsibility for their behavior.

• Violations may be reported to the Board of Directors in an ethical and confidential manner.

• The Association reserves the right to take measures as provided for in the Statutes and this Code.

• We encourage a culture of openness, dialogue, and responsibility.

Conclusion

This Code is the foundation upon which we build trust, professionalism, and unity.

As members of BAAFCE, we commit to:

• Upholding ethical principles

• Maintaining high professional standards

• Protecting the public interest

• Strengthening the reputation of the Association
  

Together, we are building a community of experts that contributes to a more secure and honest environment in Bulgaria.