On December 9, 2024, Bangkok hosted discussions emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive approach that encompasses both government and society in the ongoing battle against corruption. In recognition of International Anti-Corruption Day, the focus shifted to the significant role non-state actors—like civil society organizations and investigative journalists—play in fostering transparency and accountability in Southeast Asia.
The United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) highlights the necessity for state parties to encourage the active involvement of individuals and organizations outside the governmental sphere. Torplus Nick Yomnak, the director of the Knowledge Hub for Regional Anti-Corruption and Good Governance Collaboration (KRAC) and leader of the Southeast Asia Anti-Corruption Network (SEA-ACN), stressed that citizen engagement is essential for combating corruption effectively. However, he pointed out the challenges posed by declining civil society and press freedoms in the region.
To counter these setbacks, in July 2023, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), with funding from the Government of Sweden, initiated a project aimed at empowering civil society and journalists to enhance transparency across Southeast Asia. As this project concludes, Sweden has pledged further financial support for 2025, highlighting its commitment to promoting rule of law and accountability.
Recent initiatives under the SEA-ACN allow civil society organizations to share their experiences and advocate for reforms, including defining Politically Exposed Persons in Thailand and Malaysia and studying public procurement frameworks within ASEAN. Additionally, the Journalists Against Corruption (JAC) Network was launched in March 2024, providing a collaborative platform for journalists to investigate corruption and participate in training efforts.
Carmela Fonbuena, Executive Director of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism and leader of JAC, noted that investigative journalism is a powerful tool that has historically led to significant reforms. In 2024, JAC members received training from UNODC and were granted funding for various investigative projects. These reports will be distributed across multiple media outlets, independent of direct ties to UNODC, to maintain journalistic integrity.
Both SEA-ACN and JAC showcased their work on an international stage in Vilnius, Lithuania, further spotlighting their commitment to fighting corruption. UNODC has also developed various resources, including fact sheets and discussion papers, designed to promote public understanding of corruption challenges and bolster the efforts of civil society, paving the way for greater advocacy and awareness.
Annika Wythes, UNODC’s Team Lead for the Anti-Corruption Hub in Southeast Asia, acknowledged Sweden’s vital support for uniting non-state actors in the struggle against corruption, underscoring a collaborative commitment to foster transparency and accountability throughout the ASEAN region.
In sum, the events surrounding International Anti-Corruption Day illuminate vital partnerships and initiatives aimed at invigorating civil society’s role in combating corruption in Southeast Asia. Through collaboration, training, and resources, the aim is to empower individuals and organizations to hold decision-makers accountable and contribute to a more transparent governance framework.
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