INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY
Every year on December 9th, International Anti-corruption Day raises public awareness for anti-corruption. It also encourages the public to work on innovative solutions aimed at winning the battle against corruption.
Corruption is defined as dishonest or fraudulent conduct. Others define corruption as the abuse of entrusted power for private gain. Usually, those in power use corruption to achieve their goals. Corruption comes in many forms. Bribery, price-fixing, and embezzlement are just a few of the crimes associated with corruption. According to the United Nations, $1 trillion is paid in bribes every year. These crimes steal about $2.6 trillion on an annual basis through corruption. These numbers add up to more than 5 percent of the global GDP.
Corruption affects the social, political, and economic development of entire nations. The crime brings down governments and destroys businesses. However, the poorest and most vulnerable comprise the most common victims.
Both developed and undeveloped countries host corruption of various kinds. It is much worse, however, in underdeveloped countries. Funds lost to corruption in these countries are ten times the amount of assistance they receive for development. That’s because corruption flourishes where democratic foundations are weak.
The most corrupt countries include:
- Libya
- Afghanistan
- Guinea-Bissau
- Sudan
- North Korea
- Yemen
- Syria
- Somalia
To make progress against corruption, officials encourage countries to strengthen the institutions responsible for maintaining checks and balances over political power. It’s also critical for these institutions to operate without intimidation. Additionally, the support of a free and independent media helps to curb corruption. The UN encourages the government, the private sector, and citizens around the world to join forces in fighting this crime.
HOW TO OBSERVE #AntiCorruptionDay
For the past several years, the UN has used the theme “United Against Corruption.” It’s not enough to simply know about corruption. Citizens around the world need to take action, including holding leaders accountable. In recent years, the UN encouraged the youth to fight for a corrupt-free world.
Here are some ways you can participate:
- Raise awareness about the costs of corruption for crucial services like health and education
- Teach the youth about ethical behavior
- Always report incidents of corruption
- Refuse to participate in activities that are dishonest and illegal
To spread the word, use #AntiCorruptionDay or #UnitedAgainstCorruption on social media.
INTERNATIONAL ANTI-CORRUPTION DAY HISTORY
The UN General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption on October 31, 2003. During the Convention, the Assembly designated December 9th International Anti-Corruption day.