Assessing the nature and impact of transnational corruption through the lens of Swiss businesses

Project’s description

The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and spans from 2022 to 2026. This study explores Swiss companies' challenges and risks when engaging with public and private institutions in foreign markets. The objective is to identify the determinants of these risks, including contextual, cultural, and crisis-driven factors, and evaluate their specific impacts on Swiss companies operating abroad. Additionally, it assesses the effectiveness of risk mitigation strategies—such as compliance programs, corporate culture, and corporate social responsibility—in addressing these obstacles. 

The project’s methodology follows a three-step approach: 

1. Sample Survey: To capture a broad range of challenges, we will begin with a sample survey of Swiss companies with international operations. 
2. In-depth interviews with Swiss business representatives: To gain a nuanced understanding of Swiss companies’ experiences. 
3. Semi-structured Embassy Interviews: To provide insight into the local perspective on these issues. 

This research is conducted in partnership with prominent Swiss and international entities and is guided by an Advisory Board comprising representatives from academia, law firms, consulting firms, and Swiss governmental and political institutions. This collaboration ensures that the project’s findings are comprehensive and practically oriented, supporting Swiss businesses' international operations with sustainable, innovative strategies. The synergy between academic insights and practitioner expertise will support creating actionable recommendations that enhance compliance and security measures, helping Swiss companies mitigate risks and navigate international business environments effectively.

Project applicants, coordinators and researchers

Jean-Patrick Villeneuve (Università della Svizzera Italiana - USI) 

Guido Palazzo (Université de Lausanne - UNIL)

Giulia Mugellini (Università della Svizzera Italiana - USI) 

Rédina Berkachy (Università della Svizzera Italiana - USI) 

Lorain Fornerod (Università della Svizzera Italiana - USI) 

Project partners

Martin Killias (Schweizer Heimatschutzes and Universität St. Gallen - HSG)

Nora Markwalder (Universität St. Gallen - HSG)

Angela Me (United Nations Office On Drugs and Crime - UNODC)

Luca Tenzi – (United Nations agencies)

Advisory Board

State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)

Camera di commercio, dell’industria, dell’artigianato e dei servizi del Cantone Ticino (Cc-Ti)

Swiss Association of Manufacturers and Traders in precious metals 

KPMG Zürich

PM Consulting - Lugano

Lalive - Zurich

Schellenberg Wittmer - Geneva