Islamabad : International Anti-Corruption Day is being observed today (Tuesday) worldwide, including in Pakistan, to raise awareness about the dangers of corruption and promote transparency and integrity in governance.
The theme for this year’s observance is “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
The day, marked annually on December 9, commemorates the passage of the United Nations (UN) Convention Against Corruption on October 31, 2003. Its goal is to mobilize global action against corruption and raise public awareness on its harmful effects.
Corruption remains a pervasive issue that undermines the very foundation of societies, eroding trust in institutions and hindering progress. As long as effective measures are not taken, achieving justice, public trust, and sustainable development will remain out of reach.
A concerning trend in recent years is the normalization of corrupt practices. Bribery is often seen as a right, while adulteration and fraud are regarded as acceptable business strategies, contributing to the erosion of social and ethical values.
To eradicate corruption in Pakistan, it is essential to embrace values of honesty, public service, and transparency. By instilling these values within institutions and society, Pakistan can realistically work toward eliminating corrupt practices.
Equally important is the restoration of public trust and addressing the growing sense of disillusionment. Strengthening the rule of law and ensuring that citizens trust and support it will play a crucial role in combating corruption.
On the occasion of International Anti-Corruption Day, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed their commitment to promoting integrity, transparent governance, and continued efforts to eliminate corruption from the country.
Both leaders emphasized that combating corruption is not solely the government’s responsibility but a collective task involving civil society, the media, and ordinary citizens.
President Zardari urged public servants, professionals, and citizens to strengthen their commitment to honesty and integrity, stating that these values are essential for reinforcing Pakistan’s institutions and advancing the nation’s stability and progress.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that decisive action against financial corruption remains one of the government’s top priorities. He also pointed out that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB), along with other relevant authorities, is actively working to ensure accountability and transparency at all levels of government.
