The Hellenic Mediterranean University (HMU) is committed to operating with integrity, transparency, and accountability, in accordance with the principles of public administration and the provisions of applicable legislation:

• Law 4619/2019 (“Ratification of the Penal Code”)
• Law 4622/2019 (“Executive State: organization, operation and transparency of the Government, governmental bodies and central public administration”)
• Law 4795/2021 (“Internal Control System of the Public Sector, Integrity Advisor in public administration and other provisions for public administration and local government”)
• Law 4957/2022 on Higher Education Institutions (“New Horizons in Higher Education Institutions: Enhancing quality, functionality and the connection of HEIs with society and other provisions”)
• Law 3528/2007 (“Ratification of the Civil Service Code for Public Political Administrative Employees and Employees of Legal Entities under Public Law”)

Bribery, corruption, and related practices undermine trust, violate the law, and damage the reputation of the Institution. For this reason, the University implements a good governance policy for the prevention, detection, and response to fraud, corruption, and bribery, which applies to all members of the academic community and its partners:

• Faculty members, Laboratory Staff, Special Technical Laboratory Staff
• Administrative personnel
• Temporary and adjunct staff
• Students of all levels (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral candidates)
• Postdoctoral researchers and research associates
• Members of committees (procurement, examinations, staff selection, etc.)
• Suppliers, contractors, and external collaborators in activities or funded projects

University Commitments

The University:

• Provides awareness-raising activities and training on transparency and integrity.
• Issues guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest.
• Ensures legality in administrative and academic acts.
• Applies transparent management of public resources and research funding.

Prohibited Conduct

• Acceptance of any gift, hospitality, or benefit that may influence decision-making or compromise employee objectivity.
• Provision of benefits to individuals involved in administrative procedures (e.g., procurement, committees, evaluations).
• Any exchange of benefits aimed at obtaining preferential treatment.

Permitted Conduct

• Offering symbolic gifts of minor value within the framework of collaborations or official events, subject to prior approval by the University Administration.
• Acceptance or provision of donations only when carried out in an official and lawful manner, in accordance with procedures established by Greek legislation.

Management of Contracts and Funding

• All contracts and procurements are conducted in accordance with Law 4412/2016 on Public Procurement, ensuring transparency and equal treatment.
• Project leaders and research teams are required to ensure the lawful and proper management of funding, to comply with the applicable legislation governing the Special Account for Research Funds (ELKE) and the decisions of the Research Committee, to avoid double funding or unfair practices, and to maintain transparency in personnel selection procedures.

Sanctions

Violation of this policy may result in:

• Removal from committees, research groups, or administrative responsibilities.
• Disciplinary sanctions in accordance with civil service disciplinary law.
• Criminal and civil liability.

Reporting Procedure

Any person who suspects or becomes aware of an incident of bribery or corruption must report it immediately to the competent authorities. The University guarantees confidentiality and protection against retaliation for those who make such reports.

Through this policy, the University strengthens trust, promotes integrity, and ensures transparency in all its operations.