Which action is NOT a method for resolving a conflict of interest?

Investing in competing interests is not a method for resolving a conflict of interest. In governmental and professional settings, a conflict of interest arises when an individual's personal interests could potentially interfere with their duty to act in the best interest of their organization or the public.

The other actions—recusal, waiver, and divestiture—are recognized strategies for managing and resolving conflicts. Recusal involves stepping away from a decision-making process or situation where a conflict exists, ensuring that the individual does not influence outcomes that could benefit their personal interests. A waiver permits an individual to continue their involvement despite a potential conflict, usually with the understanding that they have disclosed the conflict and received permission to proceed. Divestiture requires an individual to sell or dispose of conflicting interests to eliminate the personal stake that could influence their decisions.

Engaging in or investing in competing interests would only serve to escalate the conflict and undermine trust in the individual's ability to act impartially, making it an inappropriate approach for addressing conflicts of interest.