EBI President Prof. Dr. Gerhard Hrebicek, in his role as President of the Ethical Governance, Quality Leaders & Standards of Excellence Committee and Senior Associate for Austria, formally introduced the Code of Trust. Developed under his leadership, this comprehensive framework is designed to strengthen ethical governance, accountability, and responsible leadership across the global entrepreneurial and investment ecosystem. The Code establishes clear, practical principles that foster resilient, transparent, and trustworthy collaboration among entrepreneurs, investors, advisors, and ecosystem partners worldwide.

The Code of Trust was presented during the WBAF Grand Assembly on 8 December in Istanbul, convening international leaders committed to advancing ethical standards in entrepreneurship and investment. Built on 12 core principles, the Code defines fairness, integrity, responsible conduct, and mutual respect. By safeguarding stakeholders, it enhances credibility and supports the long-term value creation of companies, brands, and individuals who commit to its principles.

The official signing ceremony was conducted by WBAF Chairman Baybars Altuntas, EBI President Prof. Dr. Gerhard Hrebicek, Kevin Hin, Director General of WenCHAM, Feryal Nass, High Commissioner for Bahrain BEO, a representative of btm Istanbul Chamber of Commerce (Deputy Director), and a representative of the AWE Association of  Women Entrepreneurs.

This commitment to ethical leadership was further reinforced at the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Ethical Governance, Standards of Excellence, and Quality Leadership Committee, where the promotion of global governance excellence remained central. A Global Exchange Roundtable entitled “Harmonizing Corporate Governance for the Common Good” brought together international experts to examine governance models and identify strategies to strengthen ethical accountability, social responsibility, and economic resilience across regions.

Contributions were provided by:

• Allyson Reneau, Senator, USA
• Arletty Pinel, International Partner, Panama
• Prof. Enrico Ceko, Senator, Albania
• Ismail Haznedar, Senior Associate, Türkiye

The session was chaired and moderated by Prof. Dr. Gerhard Hrebicek.

Discussions highlighted the critical role of shared governance principles as key drivers of sustainable innovation and global competitiveness. Stakeholders are encouraged to integrate the Code of Trust into their daily operations and decision-making processes, supporting a global culture of ethical entrepreneurship and responsible investment.

Regular reviews of the WBAF Ethics Framework will ensure ongoing alignment with international standards and evolving societal and technological developments.

By strengthening trust and shared responsibility, the initiative contributes to an environment in which innovation can flourish, businesses can grow sustainably, and ethical leadership is established as a universal standard.