Which of the following could be considered objectives of a compliance program?

Understanding and mitigating risk is a fundamental objective of a compliance program. A well-structured compliance program aims to identify potential risks related to regulatory requirements, organizational policies, and ethical standards. By recognizing these risks, an organization can take proactive steps to address and manage them effectively, minimizing the likelihood of violations that could lead to legal penalties or reputational damage.

In the context of compliance, risk management involves assessing both internal and external factors that could impact the organization’s ability to operate within legal and ethical boundaries. This may include evaluating processes, employee behavior, and the organization's regulatory environment. By focusing on risk mitigation, compliance programs help ensure adherence to laws and regulations, which can enhance overall organizational integrity and stakeholder trust.

The other options do not align with the core objectives of a compliance program. Maximizing profit margins may conflict with ethical standards or regulatory compliance. Shortening training duration could compromise the efficacy of compliance education, and reducing government compliance audits does not foster a culture of transparency and accountability. Rather, a strong compliance program aims to facilitate cooperation with regulatory bodies through adherence to policies and ongoing training.