Definition
A Conflict of Interest arises when personal interests may influence an individual’s objective judgment or decision-making.
Context
Conflicts of interest often arise in procurement, decision-making, or control processes and are closely linked to conflict-based corruption, internal controls, and fraud risk assessment. They are a core element of compliance programmes and governance frameworks.
Meaning
Undisclosed conflicts of interest significantly increase the risk of misconduct, corruption, and fraud and undermine organisational integrity.
Example
Awarding contracts to a company owned by a family member.
Sources
Suggested citation
wirtschaftsforensik.ch Editorial Team: "Conflict of Interest", in: Glossary, wirtschaftsforensik.ch, https://wirtschaftsforensik.ch/glossar/conflict-of-interest/, accessed April 18, 2026.