Corporate responsibility and digital evidence in electoral processes

Companies are increasingly recognized as key actors in the democratic process, carrying responsibilities to preserve electoral integrity and prevent the spread of disinformation. The Instituto Ethos, in partnership with Natura, developed a Citizen Participation and Electoral Integrity Guide to help organizations act ethically and non-partisanship during election periods. This involves respecting the political autonomy of employees and promoting a pluralistic environment rather than influencing specific votes.

In the corporate environment, digital communication tools like WhatsApp have become central to professional life, with a significant portion of global workers using the app for work-related activities. These digital records can serve as judicial evidence in labor disputes, covering issues such as working hours, harassment, and employment status. This becomes particularly sensitive during elections, as subtle political comments or pressures within messaging groups can constitute electoral harassment, where employees face intimidation or attempts to influence their political choices.