8 December 2008 - UNODC and its partners are organizing a campaign and a series of events throughout December to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day, which falls on 9 December. The campaign and events aim to raise awareness of corruption and its negative impact on individuals and society, as well as to promote the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
Government institutions, non-governmental organizations, the private sector and concerned citizens are joining UNODC in promoting the campaign slogan "Corruption. Your NO Counts". Each 'no' to corruption counts and makes a difference in fighting this crime.
Four examples from different regions illustrate how UNODC and its partners are mobilizing support for anti-corruption efforts. For more information on the campaign and a comprehensive list of events, please visit www.unodc.org/yournocounts.
Brazil
On 8 and 9 December, the Government of Brazil is organizing with UNODC support a seminar for anti-corruption agencies and internal control bodies from Mercosur and associate countries.
Other events scheduled for 9 December include an official ceremony with institutions that are fighting corruption directly or indirectly, the presentation of awards to anti-corruption monograph contest winners, the launch of awareness campaign "O que você tem a ver com a corrupção" (what you have to do with corruption), and the presentation of awards to organizations and individuals that raised awareness about corruption in Brazil.
Indonesia
From 1 to 10 December, UNODC Indonesia and the University of Indonesia will carry out a series of activities to observe the anti-corruption day. These activities includes a talk show, an interactive campaign, a panel discussion on the future of anti-corruption efforts in the country, and a lecture focusing on perspectives on corruption. On 9 December, UNODC Indonesia and the Corruption Eradication Commission are organizing an event where the President will participate in a declaration against corruption with over 1000 invitees.
Kyrgyzstan
On 9 December, a round-table meeting with national authorities, representatives of civil society and international partners will take place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, to discuss progress in implementing the National Anti-Corruption Strategy and Action Plan. UNODC is organizing the event in cooperation with National Agency on Prevention of Corruption and Transparency International's national chapter.
South Africa
The UNODC Regional Office for Southern Africa will commemorate the International Anti-Corruption Day with a round-table discussion together with the University of South Africa and the Public Service Commission. The Report of the Third National Anti-Corruption Summit of South Africa will be launched at the occasion.
The round-table discussion to be held on 9 December will look at key aspects in the fight against corruption. Members of the South African Government, the National Prosecuting Authority, and the South African National Editors Forum will participate. Other attendees include civil society representatives, members of the press, government officials, academia, and businesspeople.