ATLANTA (AP) – The tenth session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (CoSP10) is underway in Atlanta, aiming to build international cooperation and develop a common vision for future anti-corruption efforts.
CoSP10 is a major gathering of member states committed to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), the world’s only legally binding anti-corruption treaty. The conference provides a platform for states to share best practices, identify emerging challenges, and strengthen their collective response to corruption.
“For two decades, the Convention has stood as a resonant global commitment to fight corruption and as a highly effective platform to carry out that fight. As our global framework in the face of corruption, the Convention is vital for shared global aspirations,” said Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
UNCAC requires states to criminalize corruption, promote international cooperation, recover stolen assets, and improve technical assistance and information exchange. UNODC provides technical assistance and training to support states in implementing UNCAC.
In addition to the main conference, CoSP10 will also feature a number of side events and workshops focused on specific aspects of anti-corruption work. These events will provide opportunities for stakeholders from governments, civil society, and the private sector to engage in dialogue and share knowledge.
The conference is expected to conclude with the adoption of a declaration outlining the key commitments and priorities of the member states in the fight against corruption.
Pacific Islands Take Leading Role
The conference will also feature a special event focusing on the Teieniwa Vision, a regional roadmap for anti-corruption efforts developed by the Pacific Islands Countries (PICs). The Teieniwa Vision emphasizes the need for a whole-of-society approach to tackling corruption and highlights the important role of media and civil society in holding governments accountable.
Media Plays Crucial Role
The Pacific Anti-Corruption Journalists Network (PACJN) is playing a key role in supporting journalists to engage effectively with UNCAC, Teieniwa Vision, and SDG 16. PINA (Pacific Island News Association) has seen a significant increase in the quantity and quality of anti-corruption reporting in the Pacific, with journalists playing a crucial role in exposing corruption and holding those in power accountable.
“Journalists are essential to the fight against corruption,” said PACJN President Monica Miller. “By exposing corruption and holding governments accountable, journalists can help to create a more just and equitable society.”
The CoSP10 conference is a significant step forward in the global fight against corruption. By working together, states can build a future where all people can live free from the scourge of corruption.