Iraq Marks International Anti-Corruption Day with Significant Strides
On the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, Iraq’s Federal Commission of Integrity commemorated the significant steps the nation has taken in its fight against corruption. The day, marking the 20th anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), underscores the global commitment to combat corruption in all its forms.
Unprecedented Strides in Anti-Corruption Efforts
The statement from the Commission reflects Iraq’s unprecedented strides in improving transparency and accountability within its institutions. These strides include aligning public and private finance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and developing new indices to better assess the impact of anti-corruption efforts, including in public procurement. This commitment is central to the country’s development initiatives, with the aim of directing every dollar towards impactful development.
Global Struggle Against Corruption
Despite these advances, corruption remains a global challenge with one in five people worldwide reported having to pay a bribe to access a public service. According to data from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), 124 countries have stagnant corruption levels. The UNDP, along with other UN partners, is driving new efforts to measure corruption, contributing to a new Statistical Framework to Measure Corruption led by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
Reinforcing the Vision of Integrity
Executive Director of UNODC, Ghada Waly, reiterated the vision of a world where integrity prevails. Through the UNCAC, the international community has made significant strides against corruption by establishing robust legal frameworks, reforming institutions, and strengthening international cooperation. These efforts prevent resources from being diverted from public services and crisis response, disrupt illicit financial flows, and uphold the rule of law, promoting public trust and peace.
The steps taken by Iraq represent a beacon of progress in the ongoing global battle against corruption. As the world continues to struggle with this pervasive issue, the nation’s commitment to transparency and accountability provide a roadmap for others to follow.
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