The United Nations confirmed that sustainable development cannot be achieved without addressing corruption, and expressed its pride in the partnership between the United Nations and the Iraqi government in this battle.
“Your presence here confirms our collective determination to combat corruption, support transparency and enhance accountability in our region,” said Ghulam Issa Kazai, Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Humanitarian Coordinator for Iraq, during the opening of the Second Arab Forum for Promoting Transparency and Good Governance, today, Tuesday, in the capital, Baghdad. He added, “I appreciate the efforts of the Integrity Commission in Iraq, along with the United Nations Development Program and the European Union, to participate in organizing this important event, as this forum represents an important station in Iraq’s journey towards stability and sustainable development,” indicating that “Iraq has made the fight against corruption, along with economic diversification an
d service delivery, at the forefront of the strategic priorities of the leadership of the Prime Minister and his government.”
He explained, ‘As the UN Secretary-General said, ‘Corruption is the ultimate betrayal of public trust’. It is essential that we build this trust and ensure equal rights and services for all.’ The UN official stressed that “the theme of this year’s forum, ‘Integrity: An Essential Element in a Time of Complexity and Opportunity’, comes at the right time, because our region faces unprecedented challenges – wars, conflicts and violence create a cycle of corruption that is difficult to break.” He added, “The regional analysis of the Corruption Perceptions Index 2023 issued by Transparency International highlights that corruption remains a major obstacle to achieving a just and prosperous future throughout the Arab region. The UNDP Trends Report 2023 also highlights that our region is vulnerable to conflicts. Disasters and the digital divide exacerbate inequalities and complicate the fight
against corruption.’
‘Through the initiatives of UNDP and UNODC, we have made significant progress in judicial reforms, anti-money laundering efforts, and empowering civil society and the media to expose corruption,’ he continued. ‘UNDP also supported the drafting of the Right to Information Law, which was approved by the Council of Ministers and is currently being considered by Parliament. Once approved, The law will enhance citizens’ right to access information. This will enhance public transparency and have an impact on Iraq’s global position in this regard.’
‘This forum is not just a celebration of Iraq’s achievements, but also a key opportunity for regional dialogue. We need to come together to develop innovative solutions that promote peace, prosperity and democratic gains while improving public services and climate resilience. We also need to the diverse experiences and views of governments, the private sector, civil society, women’s and youth groups, the media and academia are essential to move forw
ard effectively.’
Source: National Iraqi News Agency