Statement on International Anti-Corruption Day (9 December)

Issued by: Belgian Association for Human Rights and Development (BAMRO)

On 9 December of each year, the world marks International Anti-Corruption Day, a moment that underscores the urgent need for collective global efforts to strengthen transparency, uphold the rule of law, and confront one of the most damaging phenomena undermining development and human rights.

This day comes at a time when many regions—particularly the Middle East—continue to suffer from the deep consequences of corruption within public institutions, basic services, natural resources, and economic opportunities. These practices have weakened public trust, eroded social justice, and increased economic and political vulnerability.

Combating corruption is not merely an administrative responsibility; it is a human rights obligation, directly linked to the protection of the rights to education, health, work, development, and justice. Corruption deprives societies of the resources meant to serve their people and hinders sustainable progress.

BAMRO stresses that achieving meaningful progress requires:

1. Enacting and enforcing strong, deterrent laws aligned with international standards, ensuring accountability without exception.

2. Strengthening judicial independence to enable effective prosecution of corruption at all levels.

3. Promoting transparency in public resource management, government procurement, and public service appointments.

4. Empowering national oversight bodies with financial and administrative autonomy to perform their duties without political interference.

5. Encouraging civil society and media to expose corruption and protect whistle-blowers.

BAMRO emphasizes that building stable states capable of protecting their citizens' rights begins with fighting corruption in all its forms. No society can achieve sustainable development without embracing integrity, accountability, and fair resource governance.

On this occasion, BAMRO reaffirms its commitment to raising awareness, supporting reform initiatives, and promoting good governance in the region and beyond—believing that transparency is a cornerstone of human dignity.

BAMRO – For a world of justice, integrity, and human rights.