United Nations Convention against Corruption

• 19 Dec 2023

Source: G20

Why in News?

The year 2023 marks the 20^th anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).

• The G20 also addresses anti-corruption efforts globally through its Anti-Corruption Working Group and includes related topics in the B20 and SAI20 discussions within the G20 Social track.

What is United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC)?

• The UNCAC was signed on December 9, 2003 in Mexico and entered into force on 14^th December 2005.
• The International Anti-Corruption Day was established on 9^th December as a result of proposals by the Brazilian delegation to the Convention.
• It is the only legally binding multilateral international anti-corruption treaty.
• The Convention covers five main areas:
  • Preventive Measures, Criminalization and Law Enforcement, International Cooperation, Asset Recovery, and Technical Assistance and Information Exchange.
  • The Convention covers many different forms of corruption, such as bribery, trading in influence, abuse of functions, and various acts of corruption in the private sector.

What is the G-20 Anti-Corruption Working Group?

• The G-20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) was set up in June 2010 at the Toronto Summit of G-20.
• It concentrates on sharing effective strategies to combat corruption. It also addresses emerging challenges, including the use of new technologies in countering corrupt practices.
• The ACWG is chaired by the Presidency of the G20 and a co-chair.