DSRSG/RC/HC Ghulam Isaczai on commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day

Your Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, Head of the Federal Commission of Integrity;

Your Excellency Thomas Seiler, Ambassador of the European Union;

Distinguished representatives and guests; 

It is a privilege to welcome you all to this special event commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day. This day is a powerful reminder of the profound impact corruption has on the lives of individuals, societies, and nations. 

Corruption in Iraq remains a significant obstacle to the country’s development and stability, impacting the effective functioning of institutions and the delivery of essential services. 

The United Nations continues to work closely with the Government of Iraq and international partners to combat corruption and bring it to an end.

In recent years, with the support of UNDP and UNODC, the government has made significant progress in strengthening the policy and institutional framework to combat corruption. These efforts include judicial and anti-money laundering reforms, the adoption of key legal measures to improve the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases, enhanced transparency within government agencies, and the empowerment of civil society and the media to report corruption.

This year’s International Anti-Corruption Day focusing on the role of young people in the fight against corruption, is particularly significant. Corruption does not just erode the integrity of public institutions; it also undermines the dreams and aspirations of young people, and limits their opportunities in education, employment, and civic engagement. 

Young people are not just victims of corruption - they are powerful agents of change with the potential to transform society. In Iraq, where 60% of the population is under the age of 25, the youth hold the tools, technologies, and dedication to build a brighter future for this country. Their energy and creativity demonstrate that the possibilities are endless, and the future truly lies in their hands. 

We witnessed this potential firsthand through the #PassTheBaton campaign against corruption, which garnered over 65 million views in less than 10 days last year. This award-winning initiative earned global and regional recognition, showcasing the remarkable impact young people can achieve. 

However, as we gather today to reflect on the progress made in fighting corruption, we must also remember that the fight is far from over. 

Addressing corruption in Iraq requires comprehensive reforms to strengthen institutions, enforce accountability, and improve transparency. International support and civil society engagement will be critical in driving these efforts forward.

At this point, I would like to emphasize that the fight against corruption and the promotion of integrity are central principles in the guidance of Grand Ayatollah Al-Sistani, as was highlighted in the meeting between His Eminence and the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Iraq, Dr. Mohamed Al-Hasan.

To effectively tackle corruption in Iraq, we must focus on three critical priorities. 

First, strengthening institutional frameworks and promoting transparency are vital. This involves enhancing governance structures, reforming public procurement processes to eliminate favoritism, and ensuring the transparent management of oil revenues. These steps will create a system where accountability is prioritized, and public resources are safeguarded.

Second, empowering the judiciary to prosecute corruption cases effectively is essential. A strong, independent judiciary, free from political interference and intimidation, is key to holding public officials accountable and addressing widespread practices such as bribery and extortion.

Finally, enacting laws such as the Access to Information Law is a crucial milestone on the path to greater transparency and accountability. This law will empower citizens, support civil society and the media, and strengthen trust in public institutions. I urge political leaders and parliament to prioritize this law, demonstrating their commitment to meaningful progress and reform.

I can confidently say that all UN agencies in Iraq, including UNDP and UNODC, stand ready to assist the Government and the people of Iraq in this endeavor. As UN agencies focused on development, we recognize that our efforts would be ineffective without addressing corruption, as it permeates every aspect of society and directly impacts the success of our work.

We are equally confident in the commitment of our partners, including the EU, to support the continued success of this vital work, alongside the Federal Commission of Integrity, led by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami. I look forward to seeing our efforts strengthened and sustained as we move forward together.

I would also like to thank all members of civil society, the media, and the art community, particularly the Basmate Almel initiative for joining us today and co-creating this celebration. Let’s remember that art is a powerful form of expression, conveying our message creatively and more effectively.

On behalf of the United Nations in Iraq, I thank you all for your commitment to this cause. Let us continue to work together - united in our vision of a corruption-free world where the next generation can thrive and build a better future for all.