Iraq Marks International Anti-Corruption Day with Civic Events to Empower Youth and Promote Integrity

Iraq commemorated International Anti-Corruption Day with two events held in Baghdad and Erbil, underscoring the nation’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance and highlighting the important role civil society and youth play in creating a future free from corruption.

Organized by the Federal Commission of Integrity, the Kurdistan Region’s Integrity Commission and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with support from the European Union, the events gathered government officials, international partners, civil society, artists, media representatives, and youth leaders to reflect on progress and strengthen collaborative efforts to combat corruption.

The events showcased the creative power of youth through interactive activities. In Baghdad, the creation of a public mural symbolized Iraq’s fight against corruption. In Erbil, students from the College of Fine Arts, University of Salaheddin co-created an engaging art piece. This initiative demonstrated the power of artivism in fostering dialogue and inspiring change.

Tackling Corruption in Iraq

Corruption remains one of Iraq’s most formidable challenges, undermining trust in institutions and limiting opportunities for economic growth and development. However, significant strides have been made in recent years, including reforms to judicial processes, the adoption of anti-corruption measures, and the introduction of digital governance frameworks to increase transparency.

Dr. Mohammed Ali Al-Lami, the head of the Federal Commission of Integrity-Republic of Iraq, emphasized the critical role of collaboration in combating corruption, stating in his speech: “We believe in the significance of genuine participation in the fight against corruption while preserving the independence of all cooperating entities. Our aim is to harness national capacities, community organizations, unions, and associations to achieve the noble goal of promoting a culture of integrity and reducing the channels and repercussions of corruption on our country”.

Attending the event in Baghdad, in his remarks, EU Ambassador Thomas Seiler reaffirmed the European Union’s commitment to Iraq, stating, ‘Youth and civil society are the lifeblood of the fight against corruption. With 60% of Iraq's population under the age of 25, young people possess the vision, innovation, and energy to create a future rooted in transparency and integrity. Young people should urgently request the Government and Parliament to adopt anti-corruption laws for their future lives with less bribery and favoritism but more potential for self-determined economic development. By empowering civil society and providing platforms for youth to lead, we not only strengthen accountability but also inspire lasting change. The European Union will continue to support building a corruption-free Iraq where trust and opportunity thrive.`

"To effectively combat corruption, we must strengthen institutions, empower the judiciary, and enact transformative laws like the Access to Information Law. Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of progress, and by prioritising them, we can build trust, safeguard public resources, and create an Iraq where youth, the future of this country, can enjoy equal rights and opportunities. The UN stands ready to support Iraq in this crucial endeavour." Stated DSRSG/HC/RC Ghulam Isaczai in his opening remarks at the event in Baghdad.

Youth Leading the Way

The theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2024, “Empowering Youth to Lead the Fight Against Corruption,” resonated strongly in Iraq, where 60% of the population is under 25. Young Iraqis are at the forefront of the battle against corruption, equipped with innovative ideas and a desire for a transparent future.

Iraq’s youth-led momentum against corruption was exemplified by last year’s award-winning #PasstheBaton campaign. Launched during International Anti-Corruption Day 2023, the campaign achieved over 65 million views within 10 days and was recognized as the Best Non-Profit Campaign in the MENA region. The campaign’s success highlighted the willingness of Iraq’s youth to take an active role in demanding accountability and transparency.

UNDP, with generous funding from the European Union, has been a steadfast partner in Iraq’s journey to curb corruption. UNDP’s initiatives have supported the development of robust governance systems, empowered civil society, and trained investigative journalists to act as watchdogs. Notable achievements include the launch of digital tools for monitoring public sector activities and the development of corruption risk management strategies.