Companies involved in MDB-financed projects should therefore be aware of the integrity compliance risks associated with those projects and proactively mitigate those risks by implementing an effective integrity compliance program (ICP), in line with MDB integrity compliance guidelines. Companies should be prepared for the MDBs to invoke their contractual audit rights and take seriously any MDB “show cause” letter and any formal investigation, which can be extensive. If a company is debarred, there will be a commercial imperative on obtaining release from debarment as soon as possible, and typically this will be conditional on the implementation of an ICP.

Mayer Brown lawyers have previously held senior positions in MDB integrity offices with oversight for the development, investigation and prosecution of fraud and corruption cases; coordinated a US/UK prosecution relating to corruption within an MDB while at the DOJ; defended companies and individuals under investigation for misconduct (fraud, corruption, collusion, coercion and obstruction) by the World Bank and other MDBs; advised clients on the development of ICPs designed to meet MDB integrity compliance guidelines; and acted as monitors or independent integrity compliance consultants reporting to MDBs.

We are therefore well placed to assist on all aspects of MDB integrity compliance and enforcement:

• Conducting integrity risk assessments and helping clients design, implement and reinforce effective ICPs that are consistent with MDB guidelines.
• Conducting internal investigations into allegations of misconduct involving MDB projects and advising on participation in voluntary disclosure programs.
• Conducting independent internal investigations into alleged misconduct when required by an MDB.
• Counseling clients on responses to MDB audit requests and MDB investigations into alleged misconduct.
• Defending companies in MDB sanctions proceedings and engaging in settlement negotiations on behalf of clients.
• Advising sanctioned companies on the development and implementation of ICPs and supporting applications for release from debarment or other sanctions.
• Acting as an independent integrity compliance consultant/monitor reporting to the MDB on whether a sanctioned company's ICP meets the standards of the MDB's integrity compliance guidelines.