Council for Integrity and Mediation

The German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK) is entrusted with representing the collective interests of member companies at the national, European, and international levels. A core principle of this mandate is strict adherence to the legally defined scope of authority.

Within this framework, the Council for Integrity and Mediation monitors the public statements issued by the DIHK. Its work strengthens transparency across the DIHK’s activities and reinforces trust in the organization. When members of the regional Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs) file complaints, the Council assumes the role of the official complaints body. The Council also publishes regular reports on its activities and findings.

Establishment

On January 24, 2023, the DIHK General Assembly formally established the Council for Integrity and Mediation. As an independent oversight entity, the Council ensures that the DIHK complies with statutory boundaries in its public advocacy. When IHK members submit complaints alleging that the DIHK has exceeded its legal authority, the Council acts as the complaints committee in accordance with Section 11a (3), Sentence 3 of the IHK Act.

Responsabilities

The Council’s duties include:

Reviewing DIHK activities carried out under Section 10a of the IHK Act to ensure compliance with legal competence limits,
Assessing the DIHK’s tools and processes aimed at continuously improving the representation of the collective business interest,
Evaluating complaints submitted by IHK members,
Reporting regularly on its work.