The 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (CoSP11) is underway in Doha this week, with Pacific delegates aiming to build international cooperation and develop a common vision for future anti-corruption efforts.
CoSP11 is a major gathering of member states committed to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), the world’s only legally binding anti-corruption treaty. The conference provides a platform for states to share best practices, identify emerging challenges, and strengthen their collective response to corruption.
UNCAC requires states to criminalize corruption, promote international cooperation, recover stolen assets, and improve technical assistance and information exchange. UNODC provides technical assistance and training to support states in implementing UNCAC.
In addition to the main conference where delegates will debate removing corruption from environmental crimes, impact on Small Island Developing States and making political financing more transparent, CoSP11 will also feature a number of side events and workshops focused on specific aspects of anti-corruption work.
These events will provide opportunities for stakeholders from governments, civil society, and the private sector to engage in dialogue and share knowledge.
The conference is expected to conclude with the adoption of a declaration outlining the key commitments and priorities of the member states in the fight against corruption. On the opening day, Pacific delegates spoke at a special event “Integrity is the Pacific’s crime firewall” addressing that from corruption to criminal networks, Pacific security depends on integrity first.
Opening video statements were made by the President of Kiribati, Taneti Maamau and Secretary General of the Pacific Islands Forum, Baron Waqa. The co-founder and editor of In-depth Solomons news and Board member of the Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalists Network, Ofani Eremae, spoke of the important role that civil society and open government plays in letting investigative journalists keep the public informed.
“Journalists are essential to the fight against corruption. By exposing corruption and holding governments accountable, journalists can help to create a more just and equitable society,” said Mr Eremae.
Australia’s National Anti-Corruption Commission Commissioner, Hon Paul Brereton, reminded delegates of the key role of co-operation between anti-corruption agencies in the Pacific.
“Integrity is essential for Pacific security. When corruption slips through, criminal networks grow stronger and institutions weaker. This makes the Convention’s two decades of global commitment to fighting corruption vital for achieving our shared regional aspirations,” said Marie Cauchois, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Head of Pacific Office.
The Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalists Network (PACJN) is playing a key role in supporting journalists to engage effectively with UNCAC, Teieniwa Vision, and SDG 16. PINA (Pacific Island News Association) has seen a significant increase in the quantity and quality of anti-corruption reporting in the Pacific, with journalists playing a crucial role in exposing corruption and holding those in power accountable.
UNODC has assisted the attendance of Pacific delegates, with support from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, and New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Source: UNODC
