Challenges
Corruption diverts funds from essential services such as health care, education, access to clean water, sanitation and housing. Corruption of public officials was a major impediment to the government’s ability to meet citizens’ basic needs.
Despite the presence of corruption in all sectors, many barriers prevent individuals from speaking up. These barriers include low trust in the ability of institutions to deal with it; unclear or unreliable reporting channels; absence or poor implementation of laws that protect whistleblowers; or the simple fact that citizens often do not know their rights and how to exercise them.
Preventing and combating corruption is a multifaceted process which requires synergy among all sectors and all members of society, including governments, the media, the private sector and civil society organizations. Since corruption is undermining the rights of citizens (including the rights to be in good health, to receive education and to have transparent governance practices), it is important that all sectors of society recognize and assume their responsibilities towards them.