The United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) is an international treaty adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003. It is a comprehensive and multilateral legal framework aimed at combating corruption on a global scale. UNCAC seeks to promote and develop measures that prevent, detect, and punish corruption, both in the public and private sectors, with the ultimate goal of fostering transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance.
UNCAC defines corruption as the abuse of entrusted power, whether for personal gain or to benefit others, causing harm to society and the economy. The convention outlines various forms of corruption, including bribery, embezzlement, trading in influence, abuse of office, and money laundering. It also covers related offenses and addresses areas such as prevention, asset recovery, and technical assistance and information exchange.
UNCAC sets out guiding principles and best practices for states to follow in their fight against corruption. It encourages countries to establish domestic legal frameworks, institutions, and mechanisms to prevent and combat corruption effectively. It emphasizes the need for international cooperation, including extradition, mutual legal assistance, and asset recovery, to ensure corrupt individuals are held accountable regardless of their location.
As an international legal instrument, UNCAC provides a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and mutual learning among states, fostering the sharing of experiences and the development of common strategies to address corruption. The convention aims to promote good governance, strengthen the rule of law, and contribute to sustainable development by reducing corruption's detrimental effects on economies and societies worldwide.
