December 09, 2023: Every year, on December 9 International Anti-Corruption Day is observed across the globe. It is a day designated by the United Nations. This day is dedicated to fostering awareness about corruption and worldwide initiatives to address and deter it. It emphasises the significance of upholding transparency, accountability, and integrity in both public and private spheres. International Anti-Corruption Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing global commitment to combat corruption and promote ethical practices.
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption on October 31, 2003, and appointed the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) as its secretariat. This resolution also marked December 9 as International Anti-Corruption Day to raise awareness about corruption and emphasise the Convention’s role in preventing and combating it.
The Convention officially came into force in December 2005. Since then, December 9th has been observed annually as a day for global collaboration involving governments, businesses, NGOs, media, and citizens in the fight against corruption. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and UNODC actively lead these efforts.