On account of the experience and expertise of the GEOS Group, the Group is called on to take action in geographical zones or in certain sectors of business that are bereft of all legal and moral constraints. Is it possible to be flexible with regard to the ethical principles that govern our profession, using the pretext of increased efficacy on the ground ?

The response from GEOS is clearly a negative.

From the very outset of the firm, it seemed necessary to have a Code of Ethics which is strictly respected by all the staff.

The main role of the Ethics Committee is to ensure that the professional ethics enshrined in the Group’s Code are respected. The responsibility is onerous. As each assignment is specific, ascertaining the parameters particular to each is an ongoing duty. The work becomes somewhat delicate when the Committee concludes that a given assignment must be refused as it may conflict with the Ethics Code.

In order to formulate an enlightened judgement, the Committee assesses the legal aspects, the question of human rights, the local business environment, especially in hostile business environments.

This approach does not constitute a brake to the Group’s activities. On the contrary, by avoiding all divagation from a strict moral framework, the Group’s Ethics Code not only protects the GEOS personnel, but above all the client. By ensuring the primacy of the quality of the service over profits, and by placing above all else the defence of the interests of companies of France and Europe, it contributes rather to the continuation and development of our skills and know-how.

Guillaume Verspieren,
President of the GEOS Group Supervisory Board