Baghdad, December 7, 2023 - Iraq, in commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day, highlights its unwavering commitment to eradicating corruption through a nationwide campaign, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The #PasstheBaton Campaign aims to confront the pervasive challenges of corruption and spark transformative change.

Recognizing corruption as a fundamental cause of instability and conflict, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani and his government have prioritized the fight against corruption for sustainable development. Iraq's commitment, as ratified through the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in 2008, underscores its dedication to transparent governance. Recent efforts to diversify the economy, reduce dependency on oil, boost youth employment, and attract foreign investment hinge on the elimination of corruption.

Standing alongside Iraq in its anti-corruption endeavors, UNDP, with financial support from the European Union, provides legislative, training, and digital assistance to reinforce collaborative efforts for meaningful progress in Iraq's Anti-Corruption portfolio.

Overview of the #PasstheBaton Campaign

Launching on December 8, the campaign calls upon citizens, public and private sectors, the international community, and UN Agencies to unite in the fight against corruption.

Participants will symbolically pass the baton through social media, signifying shared accountability and responsibility.

The campaign aims to raise public awareness and encourages institutions to recommit to anti-corruption efforts.

In collaboration with the Federal Commission of Integrity and the Commission of Integrity in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, the campaign specifically targets Iraq's youth, who make up nearly 60% of the population. Recognizing their potential, the government places youth at the forefront of interventions for sustainable development goals and societal transformation.

Join the #PasstheBaton Campaign

Everyone is invited to participate by recording themselves running with a rolled white paper on December 8. Participants will pass the baton to a friend, colleague, or stakeholder, using their voice to raise hopes, commitments, and demands for a corruption-free Iraq. The campaign aims to educate participants about corruption through quizzes and provides a downloadable guideline on recognizing, reporting, and combating corruption.

Impact on Vulnerable Populations

The campaign delves into the impact of corruption on vulnerable populations, emphasizing its disproportionate effects on women, children, persons with disabilities, and displaced populations. Corruption exacerbates inequalities faced by women, including economic burdens and limited access to essential services. It deepens food insecurity, reduces job opportunities for youth, and contributes to illegal migration. Addressing corruption through sustainable solutions requires global cooperation and a holistic, unified approach by all stakeholders.

On International Anti-Corruption Day, marking the twentieth anniversary of the United Nations Convention against Corruption, Iraq and UNDP aim to ignite a nationwide movement that transcends borders, empowering citizens to build a future free from corruption.

Spread the Word!

Help promote widespread participation by sharing the #PasstheBaton Campaign on social media. Let's unite against corruption and create a brighter, corruption-free future for Iraq.

For Media Inquiries:

tayfun.yilmaz@undp.org

#PasstheBaton #IraqAgainstCorruption #UNCAC20Years