Promoting Anti-Corruption Measures in Indonesia

Webinar, 19 May – 24 August 2020 - The nexus of Covid-19 and corruption has serious implications for governmental responses to transnational crime, in ways which are not yet widely understood. Globally, the pandemic has led to a spike in falsified medical products and cybercrime, according to a UNODC study. A shift in consumer behaviour into the online realm has provided fertile ground for an increase in data-compromise frauds, including phishing and scams. A marked rise in the trafficking of falsified and substandard PPE and other medical products, in some cases by drug trafficking networks, underlines the adaptability of criminal groups in moving to exploit new markets. In Southeast Asia, research from UNODC suggests that the pandemic presents new corruption and fraud challenges, posing a serious drain on already-strained economies. The upswing in criminal operations and corruption have the potential to undermine responses to Covid-19 and to compromise economic recovery globally, leading to calls for greater cooperation by the United Nations.



Over May to August 2020, in partnership with Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK), UNODC has engaged government, civil society and private sector experts in weekly online webinars, focusing on different aspects of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). Topics have included business integrity, the Jakarta Principles, beneficial ownership, conflict of interests and whistleblower protection in Indonesia, as part of sessions aiming to discuss how to apply best practices to the national context.

Crucially, the sessions have brought together civil society, academic and government practitioners – promoting collaborative approaches which are vital if corruption is to be prevented effectively, according to Article 13 of the UNCAC. The webinar discussions are currently being taken offline by UNODC with responsible national authorities to develop regulatory and institutional solutions to the challenges for UNCAC implementation. Greater integrity and transparency would be a win for rule of law, the economy and for public health at large.


Related Links