Declare a Conflict Before It Decides

The principle

A conflict of interest arises when a private interest could improperly influence an official or organizational responsibility. Its existence does not establish that someone has acted dishonestly. Early disclosure allows the organization to choose an appropriate response, such as independent review or recusal, before the interest affects a decision.

Worked example

A fictional committee selects a venue for a public event. One member's sibling owns a shortlisted hall. The member declares the relationship before scoring proposals. Another authorized person decides the management plan, and the member does not take part in the relevant evaluation. The committee records the arrangement and compares venues using the established criteria. This protects both the process and the member from an avoidable suspicion.

Limits and judgment

Disclosure alone may be insufficient; a disclosed conflict can still distort a decision if the person retains decisive influence. Responses should be proportionate to the role and risk, and the applicable rules may differ by organization and jurisdiction. The example teaches an ethical process, not a legal determination. Avoid treating every relationship as corruption while also avoiding the claim that personal confidence removes the need for safeguards.

RETRIEVE. REASON. REMEMBER.

Knowledge check.

Choose one answer for each question, then check your reasoning.