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International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on 9th December, serving as a global reminder of the importance of eradicating corruption in all forms. This day is an opportunity to unite people worldwide to reflect on the vision of a corruption-free society—one that upholds integrity, transparency, and justice for all. The observance emphasizes the active role that individuals, especially youth, can play in combating corruption and fostering equality and fairness in every sphere of life.Anti-Corruption Day
International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 Date – December 9
In this article readers can get a glimpse on
- Origins and Purpose of International Anti-Corruption Day
- History and Objective of International Anti-Corruption Day
- International Anti-Corruption Day Theme 2025
- International Anti-Corruption Day Quiz
The Origins and Purpose of International Anti-Corruption Day
1: Who was the first woman President of India?
International Anti-Corruption Day was established to combat corruption and hold accountable those who perpetuate it. This significant day aims to inspire collective action toward creating a world free from discrimination, inequality, and injustice. It emphasizes the importance of fairness, transparency, and ethical behavior in building a better future for all.
Each year, the United Nations organizes a six-week program leading up to International Anti-Corruption Day to raise awareness about corruption and educate people about their rights and responsibilities. These programs encourage individuals and communities to actively contribute to the fight against corruption and work towards creating a more equitable society.
To observe International Anti-Corruption Day, you can share the official International Anti-Corruption Day logo on social media platforms, spreading awareness about the cause. You can also take part in the six-week UN program to play your role in fostering a corruption-free world and making a positive impact on society.
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Start Learning!History and Objective of International Anti-Corruption Day
Corruption has been a very complex social-political phenomenon that has affected all of the countries around the world. It is one of the main reasons for earthquakes to the foundation of a democratic institution in the world. On 31st October 2003, the general assembly adopted this International anti-corruption day. 9 December was designated as International anti-corruption day. This day creates awareness through various seminars and other events that are presented by the private sector, government sector and non-government organisations around the world.
History
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The UN Convention: The day commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) by the UN General Assembly on October 31, 2003.
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Designation: The General Assembly designated December 9th as International Anti-Corruption Day in the same 2003 resolution to raise public awareness of corruption and the role of the Convention in combating it.
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Significance: UNCAC is the world’s only legally binding universal anti-corruption instrument, providing a global framework for countries to strengthen their anti-corruption efforts.
Objective
The central objective is to highlight the pervasive and damaging effects of corruption and to promote the role of the UNCAC in uniting the world against this crime.
Key goals include:
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Raising Awareness: Educating the public about how corruption undermines democratic institutions, distorts markets, slows economic development, and threatens the rule of law.
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Mobilizing Action: Encouraging governments, the private sector, civil society, media, and citizens to work together to promote integrity and accountability.
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Promoting Transparency: Advocating for the adoption and enforcement of effective anti-corruption measures to foster integrity in both public and private affairs.
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Supporting Development: Stressing that combating corruption is essential for achieving global goals like peace, security, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
The 5 Pillars of the UN Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC)
The UNCAC provides a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach based on five main, interconnected areas:
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Preventive Measures: Establishing and promoting anti-corruption bodies, enhancing transparency in public service, regulating public procurement, and adopting codes of conduct for public officials.
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Criminalization and Law Enforcement: Requiring member states to establish a wide range of corruption-related crimes, including not only bribery and embezzlement but also money-laundering and obstruction of justice.
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International Cooperation: Facilitating cooperation among countries on extradition, mutual legal assistance, and joint law enforcement efforts to tackle transnational corruption.
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Asset Recovery: Establishing a framework for the return of assets stolen through corruption to the country from which they were illicitly taken—a fundamental principle of the Convention.
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Technical Assistance and Information Exchange: Encouraging developed countries to provide support to developing countries to implement the Convention effectively.
Why International Anti-Corruption Day Matters
Corruption remains a significant global issue, undermining development, perpetuating inequality, and eroding trust in public institutions. Recognizing the gravity of this challenge, International Anti-Corruption Day calls upon people from all walks of life to contribute to creating a world free of injustice and dishonesty. It provides a platform to discuss solutions, share ideas, and commit to actionable steps toward achieving a corruption-free society.
International Anti Corruption Day Theme 2025
Recent Theme: Uniting with Youth Against Corruption
The campaign theme for the recent 2024 and ongoing 2025 International Anti-Corruption Day is “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.”
This theme emphasizes:
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The vital role of the youth (nearly a quarter of the global population) as advocates and innovators in the fight against corruption.
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The need to empower young people to lead change, leverage emerging technologies like AI, and build a future rooted in fairness and integrity.
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The disproportionate impact corruption has on young people’s access to quality education, job opportunities, and public services.
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) lead the annual campaigns, often using multi-year themes to build momentum.
International Anti-Corruption Day Official Themes (2014–2025)
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2025: Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity
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Focus: This theme is a continuation from 2024, highlighting the crucial role of young people as advocates and integrity leaders. The 2025 campaign specifically focuses on links between corruption and organized crime, AI, and emerging technologies.
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2024: Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity
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Focus: Launched a two-year campaign emphasizing the vital role of the 1.9 billion young people globally in promoting transparency, ethical behavior, and building a future free from corruption.
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2023: Uniting the World Against Corruption
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Focus: A broad call for collective, global action from governments, the private sector, civil society, and individuals to tackle the crime.
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2022: UNCAC at 20: United Against Corruption
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Focus: Celebrated the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC), promoting its universal value and implementation.
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2021: Your right, your role: Say no to corruption
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Focus: Centered on the rights and responsibilities of every citizen, including government officials, civil servants, the media, and youth, to fight corruption.
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2020: Recover with Integrity
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Focus: Focused on the importance of integrity, transparency, and accountability in the use of funds dedicated to the COVID-19 pandemic recovery and ensuring public resources are not misused.
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2019: United Against Corruption
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Focus: A general call for all sectors of society to work together, highlighting that corruption undermines democracy and sustainable development.
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2018: United Against Corruption
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2017: United Against Corruption
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2016: United Against Corruption
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2015: Corruption: An impediment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
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Focus: Directly linked anti-corruption efforts to the achievement of the newly adopted SDGs, particularly SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions).
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2014: Break the Chain of Corruption
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Focus: Encouraged individuals to take responsibility in speaking up and saying no to corruption, empowering people to be part of the solution.
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International Anti Corruption Day Quotes 2025
If you want to be a part of the people who bring change related to corruption then you can share some quotes on your social media that will help you to create awareness. Given below we are sharing some of their specifications related to the International Anti Corruption Day 2025 Quotes.
- This Anti Corruption Day Promise To Yourself And Nation Power Doesn’t Degenerate. Dread Adulterates, Maybe The Dread Of Lost Power.
- Since Degenerate Individuals Join Among Themselves To Establish A Power, At That Point Legit Individuals Must Do Likewise.
- Corruption Resembles A Mosquito, It Sucks The Blood Of Regular Man.
- Corruption, The Single Worst Thing About Our General Public Today and Instead Of Fighting Corruption Start Becoming A Part Of It.
- Corruption Go Away Leave My Country, I Will Work Towards Cleaning The Nation.
- On The Occasion Of International Anti Corruption Day, We All Must Take A Pledge To Do Our Best To Uproot This Problem From Our Lives.
- I Consider Corruption To Be A Human Adversary For Youthful Popular Government. Let’s Work Against It.
- When You Think That You Are Not A Part Of Solution Then Just Introspect You Might Be The Part Of Problem.
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Start Learning!International Anti Corruption Day Quiz 2025
5. ‘National Anti-Corruption Commission bill’ is associated with which country?
A) USA
B) India
C) Australia
D) Pakistan
6. Which state’s Chief Minister has launched a mobile anti-corruption app called 1064 Anti-Corruption Mobile App?
7. Which UN Body organises the “International Anti-Corruption Day”?
A) UNCTAD
B) UNDP
C) UNESCO
D) UNICEF
8. Which Indian social activist was honoured with the U.S Anti-corruption champions award?
A) Disha Ravi
B) Anjali Bharadwaj
C) Sunitha Krishnan
D) Prashant Bhushan
9. Which was the first major corruption case in India?
A) Jeep Scandal
B) Bofor Scandal
C) Teja Loan Scandal
D) Harshad Mehta Scandal
10. The Right to Information Act was passed in?
A) 2009
B) 2005
C) 2008
D) 2007
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International Anti-Corruption Day reminds us that corruption affects every sector, weakens institutions, and slows down development. It highlights the need for stronger laws, transparent systems, and responsible governance at all levels. The day encourages individuals, communities, and governments to stand together and promote fairness, accountability, and justice. By raising awareness, it helps people understand how corruption harms society and why collective action is essential.
This day also inspires citizens to report wrongdoing, support ethical practices, and demand integrity from leaders. It emphasizes that even small actions, like following rules or refusing bribes, contribute to a cleaner and more honest system. The fight against corruption requires cooperation among governments, businesses, and civil society. When everyone participates with commitment and courage, a corruption-free future becomes much more achievable.
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Start Learning!Frequently Asked Questions
What is International Anti-Corruption Day?
International Anti-Corruption Day is a global observance dedicated to raising awareness about corruption. It highlights how corruption affects development, equality, and justice. The day encourages countries to strengthen laws and accountability. It also promotes public participation in reporting and resisting corruption. Its purpose is to build a fair and transparent world.
Why is International Anti-Corruption Day important?
The day is important because corruption affects every part of society. It reduces access to essential services and harms vulnerable communities. It also weakens trust in institutions and public systems. Awareness helps people understand their rights and responsibilities. Global participation strengthens collective action against corruption.
Who leads global efforts against corruption?
The United Nations and UNODC lead major international actions. They guide countries on policies, laws, and enforcement strategies. They also support anti-corruption education and awareness programs. Many international organizations collaborate to reduce global corruption risks. Their combined efforts create stronger global accountability.
What are common forms of corruption?
Common forms include bribery, embezzlement, fraud, and favoritism. These practices harm fairness and transparency. They also make systems inefficient and less trustworthy. All forms of corruption affect individuals and communities. Recognizing them is the first step toward prevention.
How does corruption affect ordinary people?
Corruption increases the cost of basic services. It also limits access to opportunities and fair treatment. Communities suffer when funds meant for development are stolen. People lose trust in institutions that fail to protect them. Daily life becomes harder when corruption becomes normal.
What is the role of whistleblowers?
Whistleblowers report corruption or wrongdoing within organizations. They help uncover hidden crimes and protect public interest. Their actions support transparency and justice. Many countries have laws to protect whistleblowers from harm. Encouraging whistleblowing strengthens accountability.
How can technology help fight corruption?
Technology improves transparency through digital records and online services. It reduces human interaction in processes where bribery might occur. E-governance systems track decisions and financial movements. Digital reporting tools make complaints easier and safer. Technology builds trust by making systems more open.
How can citizens contribute to reducing corruption?
Citizens can refuse to participate in bribery. They can report corruption through official channels. Supporting honest leadership also strengthens accountability. Awareness and education empower people to make ethical choices. Collective action makes anti-corruption efforts stronger.
What is the UN Convention against Corruption?
It is a global treaty aimed at preventing and controlling corruption. Countries that sign it commit to strong anti-corruption laws. The convention promotes cooperation, asset recovery, and transparency. It also guides nations on protecting whistleblowers and strengthening institutions. It is the foundation of global anti-corruption efforts.
What is the main message of International Anti-Corruption Day?
The day encourages everyone to take a stand against corruption. It reminds people that even small ethical choices matter. Governments are urged to improve systems and laws. Communities are encouraged to speak up when they see wrongdoing. The message is that a fair society requires honesty from all.
