Thursday, December 21, 2017

Thailand control measures / Settling corruption prosecutions / Bangladesh banking sector

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Thai anti-corruption agency issues Guidelines on Appropriate Internal Control Measures for Juristic Persons. Issued 15 December 2017, these guidelines by the National Anti-Corruption Commission of Thailand (NACC) set out the fundamental elements of what constitute effective internal control by a juristic person to prevent its employees and its associated persons from bribing public officials and are produced as part of a wider effort by the NACC to tackle the supply side of corruption.

The Government Gazette in Thai: http://www.ratchakitcha.soc.go.th/DATA/PDF/2560/A/125/11.PDF

The Guidelines in English: https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B4EqHTtPIUhbUmpKRmhOU2VCcWc/view

Thank you to Ms. Orawan Phuwatharadol, International Affairs Officer, Bureau of International Affairs, Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) of the Kingdom of Thailand, for sharing this information.


Settling Prosecutions for Corruption: Developing Nations' Issues (opinion).  "Developing nations, the World Bank/UNODC's StAR Program, and civil society groups say many of these settlements have let corporate bribe payers off too easy."

Rick Messick/Global Anticorruption Blog: https://globalanticorruptionblog.com/2017/12/13/settling-prosecutions-for-corruption-developing-nations-issues/


Corruption in Banks: TI Bangladesh calls for forming expert committee.  Transparency International Bangladesh has called for formation of an expert committee to combat irregularities, corruption and risks in the banking sector.

The Daily Star: http://www.thedailystar.net/backpage/corruption-banks-tib-calls-forming-expert-committee-1506535

Wednesday, December 20, 2017

SPECIAL REPORT: A Round-Up of Events in Asia-Pacific Marking the Int'l Anti-Corruption Day 2017 (9 December)

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BANGLADESH:

ACC Chairman calls for stand against corrupt people.  Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Iqbal Mahmud said that people should stand against the corrupt ones right now as their arrogance has crossed the limit during a discussion held as part of the Commission's celebration of the International Anti-Corruption Day with the theme 'Come: Get united against the corrupt' at the auditorium of the Jatiya Natyashala of Bangladesh Shilapakala Academy.  http://www.thedailystar.net/country/acc-chairman-iqbal-mahmud-calls-stand-against-corrupt-people-1502542

International Anti-Corruption Day observed.  The International Anti-Corruption Day was observed across the country in a befitting manner with the theme 'Come, Get united against the corrupt'. ACC Chairman Iqbal Mahmud inaugurated the function by releasing pigeons and festoons at its headquarters in the capital city. The ACC boss also unveiled a mass signature programme by putting his signature on the registry book. The signature campaign will continue until December 14.  http://businessnews24bd.com/international-anti-corruption-day-observed/

Corruption is anti-development.  On the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, executive director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), talks to Eresh Omar Jamal of The Daily Star about the corrosive impact of corruption, one of the biggest obstacles to Bangladesh's development, and how we can make progress in reducing it.  http://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/interviews/corruption-anti-development-1502296

Anti Corruption Moot Court Competition.  Dhaka University Moot Court Society (DUMCS), the pioneer mooting institution in the country, in collaboration with Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), organised the Anti Corruption Moot Court Competition from December 7-9, 2017 at the University of Dhaka (DU).  http://www.thedailystar.net/law-our-rights/dmucs-tib-anti-corruption-moot-court-competition-2017-held-du-1502947

Anti-corruption cartoon and photography exhibit.  Apart from being a tool for engagement, sensitization, raising awareness and developing a sense of responsibility and commitment, the cartoons and photographs are also used in various communication materials for dissemination of anti-corruption messages in field-based civic engagement works on education, health, land, local government and climate change governance.  http://www.thedailystar.net/arts-entertainment/exhibition/anti-corruption-cartoon-and-photography-exhibit-underway-1503520


FIJI:

Roadshow on Anti-Corruption.  The Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC) will hold a nationwide road show to disseminate information on the importance of International Anti-Corruption Day and the work of FICAC.  http://www.fbc.com.fj/fiji/57467/ficac-to-hold-roadshow-on-anti-corruption

Youth workshop. A half-day workshop held 5 December with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) featured a discussion with young people on how they can play an active role to prevent corruption in the Pacific region. This was followed by a panel discussion with panelists from the UN, Ministry of Youth, FICAC and civil society groups including the Pacific Youth Council and the Pacific Youth Forum Against Corruption. They day wrapped up with poets sharing pieces on corruption, the launch of the 2018 Pacific Youth Anti-Corruption Calendar, and the promotion of an Anti-Corruption Toolkit.

Anti-corruption lessons integrated into national education curriculum.  The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption is working with the Curriculum Development Unit from the Ministry of Education to have anti-corruption lessons integrated into the current national education curriculum.  http://fijivillage.com/news/Anti-corruption-lessons-to-be-integrated-into-the-current-national-education-curriculum-s925rk/

Need to set a culture of transparency.  These are the sentiments of the Attorney General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum while delivering his address on International Anti-Corruption Day in Suva.  http://fijivillage.com/news/There-is-a-need-to-set-a-culture-of-transparency-in-Fiji---AG-2skr59/


INDIA:

India among winners of Anti-Corruption Excellence Award.  India was among the six winners honoured at the 'International Anti-Corruption Excellence (ACE) Awards 2017 held in Geneva on Friday, December 8, 2017.  The Ceremony was held a day ahead of the 'International Anti-Corruption Day' observed yesterday – Saturday, December 9, 2017.  The winners, from China, Indonesia, Italy, Jordan, the USA and India, were honoured for their support extended to UNODC and its anti-corruption mandates, specifically, the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).  http://www.indiannewslink.co.nz/india-among-winners-of-anti-corruption-excellence-award/

Anti-graft award for Bengaluru-based ipaidabribe.com.   I Paid A Bribe - an anticorruption platform run by city based non-profit Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy - was conferred the International Anti-Corruption Excellence (ACE) Award 2017 at the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG) on December 8.  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/anti-graft-award-for-bengaluru-based-ipaidabribe-com/articleshow/62046217.cms


INDONESIA:

Legal Enforcement is Important to Combat Corruption: President Jokowi. President Jokowi noted that Indonesia is one of the countries that have been active in enforcing the law in corruption cases which can be proven that since 2004 until now, at least 12 governors and as well as 64 mayors and regents have been arrested for committing corruption.http://setkab.go.id/en/legal-enforcement-is-important-to-combat-corruption-president-jokowi/


IRAN:

How business can help fight corruption. In celebration of a recent agreement between the Tehran Chamber of Commerce and a local university to launch a private-sector self-assessment tool on anti-corruption efforts, ICC Iran joined representatives from the Iranian government, NGOs and the private sector at the chamber, on 9 December, to explore how technology can boost implementation of the anti-corruption tool beyond Tehran.  http://www.icc-iran.com/Fa/5167/%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%AD-%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%B1-%DA%A9%D9%85%DB%8C%D8%AA%D9%87-%D8%A7%DB%8C%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86%DB%8C-%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%82-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B2%D8%B1%DA%AF%D8%A7%D9%86%DB%8C.aspx


MALAYSIA:

Corporations, private agencies urged to uphold anti-corruption, integrity practices.  Malaysian company Top Glove Corporation Berhad (Top Glove) in partnership with Transparency International Malaysia organised an Integrity Run 2017 event to mark International Anti Corruption in order to raise awareness among its employees, customers and vendors on the importance of anti-corruption and integrity practices.  http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/corporations-private-agencies-urged-to-uphold-anti-corruption-integrity-pra


MYANMAR:

Commemorative event in Naypyitaw on 8 December, led by the Anti-Corruption Commission and supported by UNODC and UNDP. A new anti-Corruption Video titled 'United Against Corruption: We all can Help!" developed by the ACC with support from UNDP will be launched there and aired across the country on MRTV the following week. Awards for an essay competition that was administered in the education sector (high school), on anti-corruption and its negative effect on people's lives will also be presented on the day.  

UN crime-fighting agency to help anti-corruption campaign.  The United Nation's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will help boost the Myanmar's Anti-Corruption Commission in its bid to stamp out graft and dishonesty among government officials and civil servants, according to Jeremy Douglas, the UN agency's regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, during the celebration of the International Anti-Corruption Day in Nay Pyi Taw.  https://www.mmtimes.com/news/un-crime-fighting-agency-help-anti-corruption-campaign.html


NEPAL:

Development partners to help Nepal govt.  Nepal's development partners issued a joint press release on International Anti-Corruption Day 2017 stating: "We hope that this day will serve as a new beginning under a federal model of governance to redouble efforts to improve integrity, accountability and transparency in all walks of public life."  https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/development-partners-help-govt/

Gov't has zero tolerance policy towards corruption, says PM.  Addressing a programme organised by Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba said the government would extend all cooperation to anti-graft to prevent corruption and promote good governance.  https://thehimalayantimes.com/kathmandu/govt-has-zero-tolerance-policy-towards-corruption-says-pm/


NEW ZEALAND:

International Anti-Corruption Day: NZ's good reputation brings risk.  Kiwis are being urged not to rest on our laurels despite the country consistently being rated as having low levels of corruption.  http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2017/12/international-anti-corruption-day-nz-s-good-reputation-brings-risk.html


PAKISTAN:

International Anti-Corruption Day observed: Rs290 billion recovered from corrupt people in 18 years, says DG NAB.   The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in Lahore organised an event at Alhamra Arts Council.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/253503-international-anti-corruption-day-observed-rs290-bn-recovered-from-corrupt-people-in-18-years-says-dg-nab

Eradication of social evils must to end corruption: Mamnoon.  President Mamnoon Hussain has said that a corruption-free society is possible only if the reasons behind social evils are seriously examined and work is done to eradicate them.  https://www.dawn.com/news/1375240/eradication-of-social-evils-must-to-end-corruption-mamnoon

Government firm on eradicating corruption: Mamnoon.  President Mamnoon Hussain said that eradication of corruption echoes in the voice of Pakistani nation and the government of Pakistan and its institutions are in unison for impartial, transparent and fair accountability in the country during a seminar titled "United against Corruption for a Prosperous Pakistan" organised by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/253882-government-firm-on-eradicating-corruption-mamnoon

ACE drive against corruption continues.  The Anti Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on Saturday continued its campaign for second consecutive day started in the wake of International Anti Corruption Day.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/254336-ace-drive-against-corruption-continues

UNDP to support innovative solutions to end corruption.  As part of International Anti-Corruption Day initiatives, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has signed two new agreements to develop innovative solutions to end corruption and increase accountability in the country.  https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2017/12/12/undp-to-support-innovative-solutions-to-end-corruption/


PHILIPPINES:

ADB President Calls for Stronger Efforts to Fight Corruption.  Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Takehiko Nakao has called for increased efforts from ADB staff, member governments, and other development partners to help fight corruption, money laundering, and other illicit activities that derail economic development and the achievement of social equity in the Asia and Pacific region during the celebration of International Anticorruption Day held at ADB headquarters in Manila.  http://moderndiplomacy.eu/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=3392:adb-president-calls-for-stronger-efforts-to-fight-corruption&Itemid=176

Class action suit vs Dengvaxia maker to mark International Anti-Corruption Day (op-ed).  "Corruption affects almost all segments of the society – education, transportation, justice, and health, among others."  http://www.manilatimes.net/class-action-suit-vs-dengvaxia-maker-mark-international-anti-corruption-day/367606/


SINGAPORE:

CPIB commends 18 individuals for acts against corruption.  They include a police officer and tester at a safety driving centre that refused cash offers.  http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/cpib-commends-18-individuals-for-acts-against-corruption-0


SRI LANKA:

Corruption attacks foundations of democracy (editorial).  "Politicians need to ask what they could give to the country instead of finding ways of grabbing from the country."  http://www.dailymirror.lk/article/Corruption-attacks-foundations-of-democracy-141827.html

Today is World Anti Corruption Day (editorial).  " Sri Lanka, as a developing country has suffered gravely as a result of corruption in the recent past. Therefore, it is time to stand against corruption, jointly as one nation."  http://newsfirst.lk/english/2017/12/today-world-anti-corruption-day/178202

Foreign experts to fight bribes, corruption.  In remarks during the Anti Corruption Day celebrations, Minister of Law and Order Sagala Ratnayake said the Government was mulling obtaining the assistance of external experts to carry out investigations on corruption.  http://www.dailymirror.lk/141903/Foreign-experts-to-fight-bribes-corruption

Massive program to eradicate corruption and fraud - Law & Order Minister.  The government is carrying out a massive program to eradicate corruption and fraud and the Finance Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) was set up to counter financial frauds, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development Sagala Ratnayake said.  http://www.colombopage.com/archive_17B/Dec10_1512896696CH.php


THAILAND:

International Anti-Corruption Day celebration hosted by the Royal Thai Government and UNODC. The event will be live broadcasted nationwide, capturing statements from UNODC and the National Anti-Corruption Commission of Thailand, as well as present "Integrity and Transparency Assessment Awards, "Zero Tolerance Towards Corruption" Slogan Awards, and Integrity Bouquet Against Corruption Songwriting contest awards followed by activities.

Celebrating women fighting corruption in South and Southeast Asia Symposium.  UNDP and UNODC co-hosted the symposium on 8 December to highlight how the fight against corruption is championed by many women, despite the common portrayal of women as being more adversely affected by it. Speakers include Undersecretary General Heidi Mendoza (former head of the Philippines's Commission on Audit), and Dasho Neten Zangmo (former head of ACC Bhutan and current president of Bhutan Kuen-Nyam political party).

PM urges Thais to help beat corruption.  Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha has pledged to improve Thailand's Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranking while urging Thais to have zero-tolerance for graft during an event to mark International Anti-Corruption Day at Bangkok's Impact Muang Thong Thani convention centre.  http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/politics/30333581

International Anti-Corruption Day. Zero tolerance with corruption in Phuket.  Phuket Governor Norapat Plodthong chaired the opening of the International Anti-Corruption Day event at Phuket Rajabhat University (December 9) under the concept 'Zero Tolerance with Corruption'.  https://www.phuketgazette.net/news/international-anti-corruption-day-zero-tolerance-corruption-phuket


TIMOR-LESTE:

Anti-Corruption Commission celebrates Int'l Anti-Corruption Day with seminars.  http://cac.tl/2017/12/cac-celebrates-international-anti-corruption-day-with-seminars/


VIET NAM:

Access to Information.  In commemoration of the Anti-corruption Day (9th of December) and the Human Rights Day (10th of December), UNDP in collaboration with Oxfam Viet Nam, Care International, Centre for Education Promotion and Empowerment of Women (CEPEW), and the People's Participation Working Group organized a thematic policy discussion on "Access to Information for Increased Transparency and Anti-Corruption" in Hanoi, 8 December 2017.


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Indonesialeaks launched / India anti-corruption echo / Asia upward trend

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Indonesialeaks launched to report corruption.  Indonesia Corruption Watch (ICW), in collaboration with Indonesian mass media, recently launched a whistleblower platform, called Indonesialeaks, for the public to report corruption acts.

Tempo: https://en.tempo.co/read/news/2017/12/14/055914113/Tempo-News-ICW-Launches-Indonesialeaks-to-Report-Corruption


Echoing the Anti-Corruption Wave in India (opinion).  "Continual systemic, cultural and political challenges contribute to India being viewed as a country devoid of anti-corruption laws and mechanisms, thereby making the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) wary of business practices in India."

Terence K. McLaughlin and Shruti Chopra/Inside Counsel: https://www.law.com/insidecounsel/sites/insidecounsel/2017/12/14/echoing-the-anti-corruption-wave-in-india


Asian democracies on upward trend in corruption fight.  Data shows freer press and more open societies across the region.

Ben Heubl/Nikkei Asian Review: https://asia.nikkei.com/Features/Datawatch/Asian-democracies-on-upward-trend-in-corruption-fight


Global wave / Japan anti-money laundering / Cybercrimes in 2018

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A global anti-corruption wave (opinion).  "When other countries like Saudi Arabia and China are achieving quick results, Pakistan's accountability process makes us look like a country where no one is serious about our national wealth and doomed economy."

Shaheen Sehbai/Daily Times: https://dailytimes.com.pk/154939/global-anti-corruption-wave/


Japan to strengthen money-laundering guidelines.  Japan will issue new guidelines against money laundering in an effort to prevent funds from getting into the hands of terrorist and criminal organizations and to shake its reputation as weak on dirty money.

Anti-Corruption Digest: https://anticorruptiondigest.com/anti-corruption-news/2017/12/09/japan-to-strengthen-money-laundering-guidelines/?utm_source=Anti%20Corruption%20Digest&utm_campaign=ACD%20RSS%20Feed&utm_medium=twitter&utm_content=anti_digest%20


Fake news, cybercrimes to gain more ground in 2018.  Cybercrimes – digital extortion, data scams, and fabricated content – are expected to gain more ground in 2018, predicts Trend Micro.

Keb Cuevas/Rappler; https://www.rappler.com/technology/news/190574-ransomware-fake-news-trend-micro-prediction-2018?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=technology

Monday, December 18, 2017

SPECIAL REPORT: A Round-Up of Events in Asia-Pacific Marking the Int'l Anti-Corruption Day 2017 (9 December)

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BANGLADESH:

ACC Chairman calls for stand against corrupt people.  Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) Chairman Iqbal Mahmud said that people should stand against the corrupt ones right now as their arrogance has crossed the limit during a discussion held as part of the Commission's celebration of the International Anti-Corruption Day with the theme 'Come: Get united against the corrupt' at the auditorium of the Jatiya Natyashala of Bangladesh Shilapakala Academy.  http://www.thedailystar.net/country/acc-chairman-iqbal-mahmud-calls-stand-against-corrupt-people-1502542

International Anti-Corruption Day observed.  The International Anti-Corruption Day was observed across the country in a befitting manner with the theme 'Come, Get united against the corrupt'. ACC Chairman Iqbal Mahmud inaugurated the function by releasing pigeons and festoons at its headquarters in the capital city. The ACC boss also unveiled a mass signature programme by putting his signature on the registry book. The signature campaign will continue until December 14.  http://businessnews24bd.com/international-anti-corruption-day-observed/

Corruption is anti-development.  On the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day, Dr Iftekharuzzaman, executive director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), talks to Eresh Omar Jamal of The Daily Star about the corrosive impact of corruption, one of the biggest obstacles to Bangladesh's development, and how we can make progress in reducing it.  http://www.thedailystar.net/opinion/interviews/corruption-anti-development-1502296

Anti Corruption Moot Court Competition.  Dhaka University Moot Court Society (DUMCS), the pioneer mooting institution in the country, in collaboration with Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), organised the Anti Corruption Moot Court Competition from December 7-9, 2017 at the University of Dhaka (DU).  http://www.thedailystar.net/law-our-rights/dmucs-tib-anti-corruption-moot-court-competition-2017-held-du-1502947

Anti-corruption cartoon and photography exhibit.  Apart from being a tool for engagement, sensitization, raising awareness and developing a sense of responsibility and commitment, the cartoons and photographs are also used in various communication materials for dissemination of anti-corruption messages in field-based civic engagement works on education, health, land, local government and climate change governance.  http://www.thedailystar.net/arts-entertainment/exhibition/anti-corruption-cartoon-and-photography-exhibit-underway-1503520


FIJI:

Roadshow on Anti-Corruption.  The Fiji Independent Commission against Corruption (FICAC) will hold a nationwide road show to disseminate information on the importance of International Anti-Corruption Day and the work of FICAC.  http://www.fbc.com.fj/fiji/57467/ficac-to-hold-roadshow-on-anti-corruption

Youth workshop. A half-day workshop held 5 December with the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC) featured a discussion with young people on how they can play an active role to prevent corruption in the Pacific region. This was followed by a panel discussion with panelists from the UN, Ministry of Youth, FICAC and civil society groups including the Pacific Youth Council and the Pacific Youth Forum Against Corruption. They day wrapped up with poets sharing pieces on corruption, the launch of the 2018 Pacific Youth Anti-Corruption Calendar, and the promotion of an Anti-Corruption Toolkit.

Anti-corruption lessons integrated into national education curriculum.  The Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption is working with the Curriculum Development Unit from the Ministry of Education to have anti-corruption lessons integrated into the current national education curriculum.  http://fijivillage.com/news/Anti-corruption-lessons-to-be-integrated-into-the-current-national-education-curriculum-s925rk/

Need to set a culture of transparency.  These are the sentiments of the Attorney General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum while delivering his address on International Anti-Corruption Day in Suva.  http://fijivillage.com/news/There-is-a-need-to-set-a-culture-of-transparency-in-Fiji---AG-2skr59/


INDIA:

India among winners of Anti-Corruption Excellence Award.  India was among the six winners honoured at the 'International Anti-Corruption Excellence (ACE) Awards 2017 held in Geneva on Friday, December 8, 2017.  The Ceremony was held a day ahead of the 'International Anti-Corruption Day' observed yesterday – Saturday, December 9, 2017.  The winners, from China, Indonesia, Italy, Jordan, the USA and India, were honoured for their support extended to UNODC and its anti-corruption mandates, specifically, the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).  http://www.indiannewslink.co.nz/india-among-winners-of-anti-corruption-excellence-award/

Anti-graft award for Bengaluru-based ipaidabribe.com.   I Paid A Bribe - an anticorruption platform run by city based non-profit Janaagraha Centre for Citizenship and Democracy - was conferred the International Anti-Corruption Excellence (ACE) Award 2017 at the United Nations Office in Geneva (UNOG) on December 8.  https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bengaluru/anti-graft-award-for-bengaluru-based-ipaidabribe-com/articleshow/62046217.cms


INDONESIA:

Legal Enforcement is Important to Combat Corruption: President Jokowi. President Jokowi noted that Indonesia is one of the countries that have been active in enforcing the law in corruption cases which can be proven that since 2004 until now, at least 12 governors and as well as 64 mayors and regents have been arrested for committing corruption.http://setkab.go.id/en/legal-enforcement-is-important-to-combat-corruption-president-jokowi/


IRAN:

How business can help fight corruption. In celebration of a recent agreement between the Tehran Chamber of Commerce and a local university to launch a private-sector self-assessment tool on anti-corruption efforts, ICC Iran joined representatives from the Iranian government, NGOs and the private sector at the chamber, on 9 December, to explore how technology can boost implementation of the anti-corruption tool beyond Tehran.  http://www.icc-iran.com/Fa/5167/%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%AD-%D8%AE%D8%A8%D8%B1-%DA%A9%D9%85%DB%8C%D8%AA%D9%87-%D8%A7%DB%8C%D8%B1%D8%A7%D9%86%DB%8C-%D8%A7%D8%AA%D8%A7%D9%82-%D8%A8%D8%A7%D8%B2%D8%B1%DA%AF%D8%A7%D9%86%DB%8C.aspx


MALAYSIA:

Corporations, private agencies urged to uphold anti-corruption, integrity practices.  Malaysian company Top Glove Corporation Berhad (Top Glove) in partnership with Transparency International Malaysia organised an Integrity Run 2017 event to mark International Anti Corruption in order to raise awareness among its employees, customers and vendors on the importance of anti-corruption and integrity practices.  http://www.themalaymailonline.com/malaysia/article/corporations-private-agencies-urged-to-uphold-anti-corruption-integrity-pra


MYANMAR:

Commemorative event in Naypyitaw on 8 December, led by the Anti-Corruption Commission and supported by UNODC and UNDP. A new anti-Corruption Video titled 'United Against Corruption: We all can Help!" developed by the ACC with support from UNDP will be launched there and aired across the country on MRTV the following week. Awards for an essay competition that was administered in the education sector (high school), on anti-corruption and its negative effect on people's lives will also be presented on the day.  

UN crime-fighting agency to help anti-corruption campaign.  The United Nation's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will help boost the Myanmar's Anti-Corruption Commission in its bid to stamp out graft and dishonesty among government officials and civil servants, according to Jeremy Douglas, the UN agency's regional representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, during the celebration of the International Anti-Corruption Day in Nay Pyi Taw.  https://www.mmtimes.com/news/un-crime-fighting-agency-help-anti-corruption-campaign.html


NEPAL:

Development partners to help Nepal govt.  Nepal's development partners issued a joint press release on International Anti-Corruption Day 2017 stating: "We hope that this day will serve as a new beginning under a federal model of governance to redouble efforts to improve integrity, accountability and transparency in all walks of public life."  https://thehimalayantimes.com/nepal/development-partners-help-govt/

Gov't has zero tolerance policy towards corruption, says PM.  Addressing a programme organised by Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba said the government would extend all cooperation to anti-graft to prevent corruption and promote good governance.  https://thehimalayantimes.com/kathmandu/govt-has-zero-tolerance-policy-towards-corruption-says-pm/


NEW ZEALAND:

International Anti-Corruption Day: NZ's good reputation brings risk.  Kiwis are being urged not to rest on our laurels despite the country consistently being rated as having low levels of corruption.  http://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2017/12/international-anti-corruption-day-nz-s-good-reputation-brings-risk.html


PAKISTAN:

International Anti-Corruption Day observed: Rs290 billion recovered from corrupt people in 18 years, says DG NAB.   The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in Lahore organised an event at Alhamra Arts Council.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/253503-international-anti-corruption-day-observed-rs290-bn-recovered-from-corrupt-people-in-18-years-says-dg-nab

Eradication of social evils must to end corruption: Mamnoon.  President Mamnoon Hussain has said that a corruption-free society is possible only if the reasons behind social evils are seriously examined and work is done to eradicate them.  https://www.dawn.com/news/1375240/eradication-of-social-evils-must-to-end-corruption-mamnoon

Government firm on eradicating corruption: Mamnoon.  President Mamnoon Hussain said that eradication of corruption echoes in the voice of Pakistani nation and the government of Pakistan and its institutions are in unison for impartial, transparent and fair accountability in the country during a seminar titled "United against Corruption for a Prosperous Pakistan" organised by National Accountability Bureau (NAB) at the Aiwan-e-Sadr.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/253882-government-firm-on-eradicating-corruption-mamnoon

ACE drive against corruption continues.  The Anti Corruption Establishment (ACE) Punjab on Saturday continued its campaign for second consecutive day started in the wake of International Anti Corruption Day.  https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/254336-ace-drive-against-corruption-continues

UNDP to support innovative solutions to end corruption.  As part of International Anti-Corruption Day initiatives, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has signed two new agreements to develop innovative solutions to end corruption and increase accountability in the country.  https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2017/12/12/undp-to-support-innovative-solutions-to-end-corruption/


PHILIPPINES:

ADB President Calls for Stronger Efforts to Fight Corruption.  Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Takehiko Nakao has called for increased efforts from ADB staff, member governments, and other development partners to help fight corruption, money laundering, and other illicit activities that derail economic development and the achievement of social equity in the Asia and Pacific region during the celebration of International Anticorruption Day held at ADB headquarters in Manila.  http://moderndiplomacy.eu/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=3392:adb-president-calls-for-stronger-efforts-to-fight-corruption&Itemid=176

Class action suit vs Dengvaxia maker to mark International Anti-Corruption Day (op-ed).  "Corruption affects almost all segments of the society – education, transportation, justice, and health, among others."  http://www.manilatimes.net/class-action-suit-vs-dengvaxia-maker-mark-international-anti-corruption-day/367606/


SINGAPORE:

CPIB commends 18 individuals for acts against corruption.  They include a police officer and tester at a safety driving centre that refused cash offers.  http://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/courts-crime/cpib-commends-18-individuals-for-acts-against-corruption-0


SRI LANKA:

Corruption attacks foundations of democracy (editorial).  "Politicians need to ask what they could give to the country instead of finding ways of grabbing from the country."  http://www.dailymirror.lk/article/Corruption-attacks-foundations-of-democracy-141827.html

Today is World Anti Corruption Day (editorial).  " Sri Lanka, as a developing country has suffered gravely as a result of corruption in the recent past. Therefore, it is time to stand against corruption, jointly as one nation."  http://newsfirst.lk/english/2017/12/today-world-anti-corruption-day/178202

Foreign experts to fight bribes, corruption.  In remarks during the Anti Corruption Day celebrations, Minister of Law and Order Sagala Ratnayake said the Government was mulling obtaining the assistance of external experts to carry out investigations on corruption.  http://www.dailymirror.lk/141903/Foreign-experts-to-fight-bribes-corruption

Massive program to eradicate corruption and fraud - Law & Order Minister.  The government is carrying out a massive program to eradicate corruption and fraud and the Finance Crimes Investigation Division (FCID) was set up to counter financial frauds, Minister of Law and Order and Southern Development Sagala Ratnayake said.  http://www.colombopage.com/archive_17B/Dec10_1512896696CH.php


THAILAND:

International Anti-Corruption Day celebration hosted by the Royal Thai Government and UNODC. The event will be live broadcasted nationwide, capturing statements from UNODC and the National Anti-Corruption Commission of Thailand, as well as present "Integrity and Transparency Assessment Awards, "Zero Tolerance Towards Corruption" Slogan Awards, and Integrity Bouquet Against Corruption Songwriting contest awards followed by activities.

Celebrating women fighting corruption in South and Southeast Asia Symposium.  UNDP and UNODC co-hosted the symposium on 8 December to highlight how the fight against corruption is championed by many women, despite the common portrayal of women as being more adversely affected by it. Speakers include Undersecretary General Heidi Mendoza (former head of the Philippines's Commission on Audit), and Dasho Neten Zangmo (former head of ACC Bhutan and current president of Bhutan Kuen-Nyam political party).

PM urges Thais to help beat corruption.  Prime Minister General Prayut Chan-o-cha has pledged to improve Thailand's Corruption Perception Index (CPI) ranking while urging Thais to have zero-tolerance for graft during an event to mark International Anti-Corruption Day at Bangkok's Impact Muang Thong Thani convention centre.  http://www.nationmultimedia.com/detail/politics/30333581

International Anti-Corruption Day. Zero tolerance with corruption in Phuket.  Phuket Governor Norapat Plodthong chaired the opening of the International Anti-Corruption Day event at Phuket Rajabhat University (December 9) under the concept 'Zero Tolerance with Corruption'.  https://www.phuketgazette.net/news/international-anti-corruption-day-zero-tolerance-corruption-phuket


TIMOR-LESTE:

Anti-Corruption Commission celebrates Int'l Anti-Corruption Day with seminars.  http://cac.tl/2017/12/cac-celebrates-international-anti-corruption-day-with-seminars/


VIET NAM:

Access to Information.  In commemoration of the Anti-corruption Day (9th of December) and the Human Rights Day (10th of December), UNDP in collaboration with Oxfam Viet Nam, Care International, Centre for Education Promotion and Empowerment of Women (CEPEW), and the People's Participation Working Group organized a thematic policy discussion on "Access to Information for Increased Transparency and Anti-Corruption" in Hanoi, 8 December 2017.

We must unite / Bangladesh cartoon exhibit / China concealed extravagance

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To End Corruption, We Must Unite (blog post).  "December 9th was International Anti-Corruption Day; a day on which to remember that we live in a world where every single dollar counts, particularly when aimed at helping the poorest, most vulnerable women, children and men."

Yury Fedotov, Executive Director, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime/HuffPost: http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/to-end-corruption-we-must-unite_uk_5a2e7dfee4b0d7c3f2622499


Anti-corruption cartoon and photography exhibit.  A cartoon and photography exhibition with the theme of anti-corruption is underway In Dhaka's Zainul Gallery (Faculty of Fine Arts, Dhaka University) as part of Transparency International at the Bangladesh's (TIB) continuing efforts to engage the youth in raising awareness to say no to corruption.

The Daily Star: http://www.thedailystar.net/arts-entertainment/exhibition/anti-corruption-cartoon-and-photography-exhibit-underway-1503520


China's graft watchdog warns officials over 'concealed' extravagance.  Chinese officials trying to hide dishonest spending with tricks such as throwing extravagant parties in private will be targeted in a sustained campaign to root out hedonism, the top anti-graft watchdog said.

Reuters: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-corruption/chinas-graft-watchdog-warns-officials-over-concealed-extravagance-idUSKBN1E5194

Pacific Anti-Corruption Updates (15 Dec 2017): Fiji, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu

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These updates are provided by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Regional Anti-Corruption Project for Southeast Asia, and the joint UNODC - United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption (UN-PRAC) Project, with support of the Australian Government.

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FIJI:

Need to set a culture of transparency.  These are the sentiments of the Attorney General and Minister for Economy Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum while delivering his address on International Anti-Corruption Day in Suva.

http://fijivillage.com/news/There-is-a-need-to-set-a-culture-of-transparency-in-Fiji---AG-2skr59/

Get verifications first before commenting online: AG.  Some Fijians comment on social media without any proper verification.

http://www.fbc.com.fj/fiji/57409/get-verifications-first-before-commenting-online-ag

FICAC received over 62,000 complaints over the last 10 years.  FICAC Spokesperson, Nandani Vandhana has confirmed that FICAC has taken a total of 224 cases to court and a total of 364 persons have been charged with corruption-related offenses.

http://fijivillage.com/news/FICAC-receives-over-62000-complaints-over-the-last-10-years-5sr9k2/


SOLOMON ISLANDS:

Sogavare shrugs off Fugui's statement on ACB.  Ousted Prime Minister (PM) Manasseh Sogavare shrugged off statement by Member of Parliament (MP) for Central Honiara John Fugui, who argued that the Anti-Corruption Bill (ACB) should be delayed until the Traditional Governance Bill is ready.

http://www.solomonstarnews.com/index.php/news/national/item/19660-sogavare-shrugs-off-fugui-s-statement-on-acb


VANUATU:

Vanuatu opposition lodges no confidence motion.  The opposition listed six reasons for the motion, including concerns over corruption, ministerial "incompetence", decentralisation and tax.

http://www.radionz.co.nz/international/pacific-news/346002/vanuatu-opposition-lodges-no-confidence-motion


To know more about the UN Pacific Regional Anti-Corruption Project please contact the team members:

Maria Adomeit, Regional Anti-Corruption Adviser, UNODC, maria.adomeit@unodc.org

Mihaela Stojkoska, Anti-Corruption Specialist - Pacific, UNDP, mihaela.stojkoska@undp.org

Maria Lee, Peace & Development Administrative Assistant, UNDP/UNODC, maria.lee@undp.org

President Jokowi message / Korea law / UNODC Myanmar help

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Legal Enforcement is Important to Combat Corruption: President Jokowi. President Jokowi noted that Indonesia is one of the countries that have been active in enforcing the law in corruption cases which can be proven that since 2004 until now, at least 12 governors and as well as 64 mayors and regents have been arrested for committing corruption.

Sekretariat Kabinet Republik Indonesia: http://setkab.go.id/en/legal-enforcement-is-important-to-combat-corruption-president-jokowi/

Thank you to Adhi Setyo Tamtomo, KPK,  for sharing this information.


Korea anti-corruption rules watered down.  South Korea's controversial anti-corruption law that cut deep into the country's time-honored gift-giving tradition is set to get watered down, about 15 months after taking effect. 

Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald: http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20171211000956


UN crime-fighting agency to help anti-corruption campaign.  The United Nation's Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) will help boost the Myanmar's Anti-Corruption Commission in its bid to stamp out graft and dishonesty among government officials and civil servants, a regional official of the UNODC said.

Nyein Zaw Lin/Myanmar Times: https://www.mmtimes.com/news/un-crime-fighting-agency-help-anti-corruption-campaign.html

Thursday, December 14, 2017

India mobile pay / Indonesia corporate targets / Iran customs reform

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To Cash or Not to Cash: The Future of Mobile Pay in India (opinion).  "Analysis has revealed that only 6% of illegal wealth is stored in cash, and there are countless ways to convert black money into legal holdings, including investment in real estate, foreign accounts, and gold."

Annie Lehman-Ludwig/Brown Political Review: http://www.brownpoliticalreview.org/2017/12/cash-not-cash-future-mobile-pay-india/


Indonesia anti-graft agency targets corporations.  A recent ruling by the Jakarta Corruption Court has brought corporations into the spotlight of corruption eradication campaigns in Indonesia, uncovering a long-buried fact that companies have benefitted the most from graft.

Kharishar Kahfi/The Jakarta Post: http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2017/12/04/kpk-targets-corporations.html


Iran moves to stamp out corruption opportunities in customs (opinion). "Many observers agree that, similar to other state organizations, Iran's customs dealings have suffered as a result of ambiguous laws, lack of transparency, institutional inefficiency and petty corruption."

Bijan Khajehpour/Al-Monitor: https://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2017/12/iran-customs-reforms-corruption-rouhani-trade-duties.html

Korea opinion survey / Philippines procurement reminder / India tax scrutiny

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60% of Koreans support easing of anti-graft law.  More than six out of 10 Koreans are in favor of having the anti-graft law, the so-called Kim Young-ran Act, revised to ease price caps for gifts, according to an opinion survey.

Choi Ha-young/The Korea Times: https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/nation/2017/12/356_240375.html


Philippine president reminds gov't agencies, local governments: Post procurement notices on web.  Government offices, government-owned corporations, and state schools are told to comply with the Government Procurement Reform Act's provisions on publicizing invitations for bidding and requests for expression of interest

Pia Ranada/Rappler: https://www.rappler.com/nation/190308-malacanang-reminder-procurement-notices-websites


India Is Said to Plan Electronic Tax Scrutiny for Top 500 Firms.  The measure, likely to be introduced in the federal budget in February, will eliminate the need for all human interactions in scrutiny of tax returns and replaced with an online system.

Siddhartha Singh/Bloomberg: https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-12-04/india-is-said-to-plan-electronic-tax-scrutiny-for-top-500-firms

Tuesday, December 12, 2017

Australia police fear / Malaysia probe focus / Thailand ranking target

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One in five police employees in Victoria, Australia, afraid of reporting corruption.  One in five Victoria police employees say they would not report corruption even if they witnessed it and another one in five said they feared losing their job if they reported corruption, according to a new report.

Calla Wahlquist/The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2017/dec/05/one-in-five-victoria-police-say-reporting-corruption-could-cost-their-job


Malaysia deputy minister says corruption probes should also focus on 'givers'.  Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the givers of bribes were equally to blame for the existence of corruption in the country.

Kalbana Perimbanayagam/New Straits Times: https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2017/12/310640/zahid-corruption-probes-should-also-focus-givers


Thailand confident of improved ranking in corruption perception index. Thailand believes its corruption ranking in international communities will improve this year after the country has shown strong determination to curb and suppress corruption by setting a four-year national strategy to tackle the problem drastically.

Thai PBS English News: http://englishnews.thaipbs.or.th/thailand-confident-improved-ranking-corruption-perception-index/

Monday, December 11, 2017

Sand shortage / China funding halt / Mining approval risks

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Sand shortage: Corruption and concrete dependence.  "Besides supply/demand economics attached to the huge quantities of sand being used - Singapore is the world's largest importer - criminal gangs are stealing sand in countries ranging from Jamaica to Nigeria."

Construction Equipment: https://www.constructionequipment.com/sand-shortage-corruption-and-concrete-dependence


China stops funding of 3 CPEC road projects in Pakistan over corruption reports; Beijing to issue new guidelines.  China has temporarily stopped funding at least three major road projects in Pakistan, being built as part of the $50 billion China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, following reports of corruption.

First Post: http://www.firstpost.com/world/china-stops-funding-of-3-cpec-road-projects-in-pakistan-over-corruption-reports-beijing-to-issue-new-guidelines-4243237.html


Unearthing corruption risks in mining approvals.  "From resource-rich West Africans nations, to the mining giants of the Pacific and North America, every time a government signs a deal to allow mining of its natural resources there are corruption risks – no matter where that country is."

Transparency International: https://www.transparency.org/news/feature/unearthing_corruption_risks_in_mining_approvals

Saturday, December 9, 2017

United Against Corruption for Development, Peace and Security -- 2017 Int'l Anti-Corruption Day

"We can only achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development if every nation has strong, transparent and inclusive institutions, based on the rule of law and supported by the public." — UN Secretary-General, António Guterres

Every year $1 trillion is paid in bribes while an estimated $2.6 trillion are stolen annually through corruption – a sum equivalent to more than 5 per cent of the global GDP. In developing countries, according to the United Nations Development Programme, funds lost to corruption are estimated at 10 times the amount of official development assistance.

Corruption is a serious crime that can undermine social and economic development in all societies. No country, region or community is immune. This year UNODC and UNDP have developed a joint global campaign, focusing on how corruption affects education, health, justice, democracy, prosperity and development.

The 2017 joint international campaign focuses on corruption as one of the biggest impediments to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Learn what you can do by clicking here:  http://www.anticorruptionday.org/actagainstcorruption/en/about-the-campaign/what-can-you-do.html

Read the message of Patrick Keuleers, Director, Governance and Peace-building, Bureau for Policy and Programme Support, UNDP: http://www.undp.org/content/undp/en/home/blog/2017/fighting-corruption-for-global-peace--development-and-security.html

Read the message of Yuri Fedotov, Executive Director, UNODC:  http://www.anticorruptionday.org/actagainstcorruption/en/about-the-campaign/ed-message-on-anti-corruption-day-2017.html

Friday, December 8, 2017

Philippines OGP experience / Korea law revision / Afghanistan budget analysis

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How Open Government can cut corruption (commentary).  "[Citizen Participatory Audit] bears witness to the truth of public service: government and civil society are stronger and wiser when they work together.

Michael G. Aguinaldo, Chairman of the Commission on Audit, Philippines/GovInsider: https://govinsider.asia/smart-gov/open-government-citizen-participatory-audit-philippines/


Korea's anti-corruption agency seeks again to revise anti-graft law.The country's anti-corruption watchdog said Wednesday that it will try again next week to revise an anti-graft regulation to change price ceilings on the value of gifts, free meals and condolence or congratulatory money that public servants and others can receive. 

Kim Da-sol/The Korea Herald: http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20171206000773


Analysis of Afghanistan 2018 national budget.  Integrity Watch Aghanistan has launched its analysis of the Afghan government's 2018 budget.

Integrity Watch Afghanistan: https://iwaweb.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/IWA__National-Budget__English_6.pdf

Malaysia 1MDB scandal / Indonesia bitcoin ban / China emoji launch

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U.S. DoJ chief calls Malaysia's 1MDB scandal 'kleptocracy at its worst'.  The U.S. attorney-general described a multi-billion dollar corruption scandal involving a Malaysian state fund as the worst form of kleptocracy, and said the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) was working to provide justice to the victims.

Reuters/Thomson Reuters Foundation News: https://news.trust.org/item/20171205070950-1vsxp


Bank Indonesia to prohibit use of bitcoin, other cryptocurrencies from 2018.  Jakarta will ban payment providers from collaborating with parties and platform that "facilitate digital currency transactions". 

Shiwen Yap/Deal Street Asia: https://www.dealstreetasia.com/stories/bank-indonesia-prohibit-bitcoin-cryptocurrencies-2018-87803/


China's anti-graft watchdog gets into the smartphone emoji game.  The party's graft watchdog, the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), launched the 16 downloadable icons to coincide with the fifth anniversary of the eight-point frugality code, a series of rules targeting extravagance and red tape in the organisation.

Today Online: http://www.todayonline.com/world/chinas-anti-graft-watchdog-gets-smartphone-emoji-game