International Anti-Corruption Day 2024, Theme, History

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 observed on 9 December, aims to spread awareness about the corruption practices. Introduced by the United Nations, this day is focused on highlighting the need for collective action from governments and private sectors to eliminate corruption. This article is going to look into more details about International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 as well as anti-corruption practices adopted in India. 

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 plans to gain public trust so as to collectively work towards eradicating corruption from the government and private sector. In 2024, goal is to involve the youth and call for worldwide integrity. 

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 Theme

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 theme is “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.” The theme aims to involve the youth in anti-corruption efforts. Under this theme, the youth will be targeted to educate them about corruption and its impacts and motivate them to take action. 

History of International Anti-Corruption Day

The Anti-corruption treaty was signed by 140 countries and brought into force on 14th December 2005 after the united nations general assembly adopted the United Nations Convention Against Corruption in October 2003. 

Over the years, the day has gained importance due to increasing need of spreading awareness about the issue and sharing anti-corruption policies in order to strengthen international cooperation. 

Corruption Perceptions Index

Corruption Perception Index is published annually by Transparency International. On a scale of 0 to 100, this index helps policymakers find flaws in the system and ways to rectify it. In 2023, India’s Global Corruption Perception Index was ranked 93 out of 180 countries. This highlights India’s need for implementing stronger policies and laws to fight corruption and improve accountability among the people. 

Anti- Corruption Laws and Policies in India

Let's have a look at all the major anti-corruption laws and practices adopted by India to fight corruption. These practices have been taken up to strengthen the accountability and governance in the country. 

Anti-Corruption Laws in India

• Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988: Defines corruption and penalties for offenses committed by public servants and bribe givers. 
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: Replaces the Indian Penal Code, 1860 and modernises various provisions and reforms related to corruption and bribery. 
• Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013: Addresses the grievances related to corruption and ensures public accountability. 
• WhistleBlowers Protection Act, 2014: promotes transparency by safeguarding the reporters who inform about corrupt practices.
• Legal Measures include: 
• Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002
• Benami Transactions Act, 1988
• Black Money and Imposition of Tax 2015

Anti- Corruption Policies for Enforcement Mechanisms

Following Ministries implement the anti-corruption measures in order to control the malpractices: 

Central Vigilance Commission(CVC): Supervises anti-corruption measures and investigations in order to promote more transparency in government departments. 

Central Bureau of Investigation: Involves high end cases related to corruption issues. 

State Anti- Corruption Bureaus: Investigates state level cases, promoting accountability and transparency among state government officials. 

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 Significance

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 is a significant day which aims to bring transparency against the fight for corruption: 

• Empower Youth: Acknowledges the role of youth required to build a corruption free future. 
• Global Solidarity: interconnects nations to fight against the common issues of corruption and its malpractices. 
• Legal Reforms: urges governments across all nations to adopt more stricter laws and policies to fight against corruption.
• Improves Governance Systems: Brings more transparency and holds the government accountable to tackle the issues related to corruption. 

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 urges and motivates the youth to fight against corruption and promote accountability and transparency among the government and the citizens. 

International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 FAQs

Q1. Who organizes International Anti-Corruption Day?
Ans. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) organizes International Anti-Corruption Day.

Q2. Is India a member of the UN Convention against Corruption?
Ans. Yes, India ratified the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) on May 9, 2011.

Q3. Which human body organizes International Anti-Corruption Day?
Ans. International Anti-Corruption Day is organized by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. 

Q4. What is the International Anti-Corruption Day pledge?
Ans. The International Anti-Corruption Day pledge involves committing to uphold integrity, reject corruption, and actively participate in promoting transparency and accountability.

Q5. What is the slogan for corruption?
Ans. A common anti-corruption slogan is "Your NO Counts," emphasizing individual responsibility in combating corruption.

Q6. What is the theme of Anti-Corruption Day 2024?
Ans. The theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 focuses on the role of young guardians of integrity as advocates, raising awareness about corruption and its impacts on their communities.

Q7. What is a famous quote about corruption in India?
Ans. A notable quote addressing corruption is by Kautilya (Chanakya): "Just as it is impossible not to taste the honey (or the poison) that finds itself at the tip of the tongue, so it is impossible for a government servant not to eat up, at least a bit of the king's revenue."