Transparency International’s 20th anniversary is not only the anniversary of an organisation. It is the anniversary of a conviction. The conviction that corruption is a major global problem. That it is inherently dangerous and unjust. That it can and must be stopped.
Two decades ago Peter Eigen and a handful of dedicated individuals founded
Transparency International. Today we are a global movement active in more
than 100 countries. Our chapters, members and advisors have worked tirelessly
to advance our cause, and our conviction is deep-rooted worldwide. We’ve
challenged silence and taboo, and contributed to landmark action from leaders.
The creation of the UN Convention against Corruption and the OECD AntiBribery Convention marked a watershed for our fight. These and other conventions form a vital framework for national action and powerful multi-country collaboration.
Ending corruption requires commitment at the top. Today, a growing number of
leaders in government and business are adopting zero tolerance to corruption.
With new tools for preventing and addressing corruption, we are supporting their
progress, and calling for action from those lagging behind.
In the EU, the United States, the United Kingdom and elsewhere, far-reaching
legislation is setting new benchmarks for transparency and accountability,
making it harder for the corrupt to escape justice, and giving citizens the
information they need to hold leaders to account.
The G20 made a powerful commitment to fighting corruption when it introduced
its anti-corruption action plan, tackling issues such as asset recovery, money
laundering, bribery, integrity in business and enforcement of conventions. The
decision to retain its anti-corruption working group reaffirms this commitment,
and we will use our voice to advocate for lasting solutions to corruption worldwide.
But our work is far from over. Corruption continues to cause devastation around
the world, and it is those with the least who suffer the most. Commitments have
been made, but in many countries implementation is lacking. The rule of law,
enforcement of legal and regulatory framework, and transparency and integrity in
all state institutions and business is still missing in too many countries.
We are seeing a new momentum and greater recognition of the threat corruption
poses to development, stability and peace, and more people are rejecting
corruption in their daily lives. Change requires action from all – state institutions,
civil society, business and citizens – and we will continue to work at all levels of
society to make it happen. There must be no loopholes for illicit deals, and no
safe havens for the corrupt. Twenty years on, our conviction is stronger than ever.