Fighting corruption is a global concern because corruption is found in both rich and poor countries, and evidence shows that it hurts poor people disproportionately. It contributes to instability, poverty and is a dominant factor driving fragile countries towards state failure.
Governments, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, the media and citizens around the world are joining forces to fight this crime. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) are at the forefront of these efforts.
In South Africa the fight against corruption is one of the major priorities of government. Corruption in both the private and public sector has a detrimental effect on government’s effort to deliver effective services to the people.
International Anti-Corruption Day is commemorated annually on 9 December in recognition of the United Nations Convention against Corruption which was signed in Mexico in 2003.
This day provides an opportunity for political leaders, governments, legal bodies and lobby groups to join forces against corruption. On this day anti-corruption advocates will engage the general public to effectively fight against corruption and fraud in communities.
The United Nations theme for this year’s event is “Illicit Financial Flows in Africa and its impact on development”. Illicit financial flow is a global problem, which impacts on governance and the economic development of countries.
Government through the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster has prioritised the fight against this scourge in line with government’s zero tolerance stance towards corruption in the public and private sector.
The South African anti-corruption and fraud hotline number is 0800 701 701. Other anti-corruption hotlines in government include:
- Human Settlements: 0800 204401
- Government Employees Pension Fund: 0800 43 43 73
- Traffic: 0861 400 800 (not toll free)
- South African Revenue Service: 0800 00 28 70
- South African Social Security Agency (SASSA): 0800601011
Speeches and media advisories
Public Service Commission commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day, 8 Dec
