SECRET BEHIND ANTI CORRUPTION INTERNATIONAL DAY By Monsurat Ajoke Foundation (MAF)
DATE: 11/12/2019
Every year December 9 is celebrated as International Anti-Corruption Day around the world. Its objective is to spread awareness against corruption. Corruption is a major obstacle in the development of society and the country. The resolution was passed at the United Nations Convention against Corruption on 31 October 2003. Since then, International Anti-Corruption Day is celebrated every year on December 9.
What is Corruption?
In general terms, corruption means unfair benefits given for doing legitimate or illegitimate work. This benefit can be in a financial form which is called bribery or it can be in some other way. It is a serious crime, especially for developing countries. It slows down the pace of social and economic development. It also affects national security. Millions of people are unable to get proper education, health care facilities and other facilities just due to corruption.
Theme
This year’s theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2019 is – “United Against Corruption – Take action – Lead the change – Be the change”. It emphasizes the fact that just gaining information about corruption is not enough but we should take some action and raise awareness against corruption among people. It also says that if we will take some action against corruption only then a change can be seen.
Significance
According to an estimate, every year around 1 trillion dollars or about 70 lakh crores rupees is given as bribe every year. At the same time, about 300 lakh crore rupees are stolen every year through corruption, which is about five percent of the world’s GDP. Hence, it is important for everyone to take action against corruption.
On this day, all government, private, non-government organizations and civic organizations take a pledge to fight against corruption. In the year 2019, its target has been set to work against corruption and to follow 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
History
UN General Assembly adopted a UN Convention against corruption and said that the UN has passed a resolution to celebrate International Anti-Corruption Day that will be celebrated every year on December 9.
How to complain against corruption?
If someone is demanding a bribe in any government department, then you can inform the head of that department or contact the Anti-Corruption Branch or Vigilante commission on
07030000203
08077225566
08137474118
God bless Nigeria
