Challenges to Anti-Corruption Programming Session 9

Session Objectives By the end of this session participants will be have: Discussed some of the most common questions related to sensitive issues around anti-corruption programming. Looked at some of the options to respond to the sensitive issues Some of the Do’s and do not’s of sensitive issues Explored options and entry points and a set of practical next steps to better integrate anti-corruption principles into the country’s UNDAF process.

Sensitivities: Context Everybody has an opinion on Corruption: Who’s sensitivities? Reality vs. Phantom Government/ ACAs RR/RC 1. Security 2. Politicization of AC 2. Destabilization 3. Corruption fights back/impunity Civil Society   The issue of corruption being culturally relative was discussed during the UNCAC consultations and it was agreed that corruption was a un universal phenomenon and not a cultural phenomenon on. People know when culture is being used for personal gain. Examples from different parts of the world help to show that corruption is not a cultural issue but a governance deficit. There is a common saying that if a country does not kill corruption, corruption will kill that country and that goes for the UN as well. Having data on extent of corruption by country and sectors help to convince sceptics. Anti-corruption programming facilitates poverty reduction by identifying risk of resource leakages, strengthening accountability systems and institutionalizing integrity in the public administration. Corruption is no longer a taboo! How far can I go? Self-censorship

Scout for entry points 1. Use UNCAC as entry point: the state party has an obligation to implement the provisions of UNCAC. 2. Approaching the government: Consider level of entry discussion – National/ministerial/ local level Sector vs. high level (big fish vs. small fish syndrome) Be political sensitive and avoid being lost in detail (particularly at the high level) Do your homework and know soft spots/ low hanging fruits. Institutional and personal attributes count Observe etiquettes

Programming in anti-corruption in hostile environments Identify why is it important to them (win –win scenario) Identify a strategic partner – one who opens doors. Build on national egos – build on issues that are considered of national interest/pride. Avoid supporting activities that are politicized. Look for more localized interventions (small vs. big fish) Terminology matters – e.g. do not use words like “anti-corruption champions/defenders” or “informal power structures”

Programming in anti-corruption in hostile environments The emphasis on corruption prevention rather than only on enforcement facilitates cooperation with national stakeholders. Addressing anti-corruption through a sectoral approach has helped to get the buy-in of national governments. Through the sectoral approach the emphasis is placed in the identification of risk, loopholes and vulnerabilities within the value of chain that facilitate corruption. Depending on the context, anti-corruption has been addressed under different labels to get the buy-in of the national counterparts. For example, anti-corruption programmes in some regions are usually designed under the integrity or accountability label and this approach has facilitated the dialogue with government officials. Depoliticize corruption for it to be accepted Avoid making corruption a development country issue and frame it in the context of global menace. Which issues must be addressed to take away any ‘fear’ to talk about corruption The emphasis on corruption prevention rather than only on enforcement facilitates cooperation with national stakeholders. The prevention angle helps because it strengthens the capacities of the key stakeholders to mitigate corruption risks. In addition, addressing anti-corruption through a sectoral approach has helped to get the buy-in of national governments. Through the sectoral approach the emphasis is placed in the identification of risk, loopholes and vulnerabilities within the value of chain that facilitate corruption. When one states the extent of ratifications of UNCAC, it helps to convince sceptics that corruption is no longer a taboo, the “C” word and there is no reason to be concerned about talking of corruption. However, depending on the context, anti-corruption has been addressed under different labels to get the buy-in of the national counterparts. For example, anti-corruption programmes in some regions are usually designed under the integrity or accountability label and this approach has facilitated the dialogue with government officials. Depoliticize corruption for it to be accepted Avoid making corruption a development country issue and frame it in the context of global menace.

THANKS