International Anti-Corruption Day

What is it?
International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) is observed annually on December 9 to raise awareness about corruption and promote measures to combat it. Established by the United Nations, it highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and global cooperation in fighting corruption.

Quick Facts

When is it?: December 9
Tagged as: Awareness, Governance, Anti-Corruption
What’s the hashtag?: #UnitedAgainstCorruption
When was it founded?: 2003
Who founded it?: United Nations General Assembly

History of International Anti-Corruption Day

The day was established following the adoption of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) on October 31, 2003. UNCAC is the first legally binding global anti-corruption instrument, aiming to address corruption’s impact on democracy, development, and justice. The first International Anti-Corruption Day was observed in 2005.

Timeline

2003: UNCAC adopted by the UN General Assembly.
2005: UNCAC came into force; first International Anti-Corruption Day celebrated.
2023: Marked the 20th anniversary of UNCAC with the theme “Uniting the World Against Corruption.”
2024: Focused on youth engagement with the theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption.”

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	December 9	Tuesday
2026	December 9	Wednesday
2027	December 9	Thursday
2028	December 9	Saturday
2029	December 9	Sunday
2030	December 9	Monday

Observed

Internationally, through campaigns, seminars, and educational programs led by governments, NGOs, and institutions like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Activities aim to engage citizens in fostering integrity and rejecting corruption.

Fun Facts About International Anti-Corruption Day

Over 190 countries have ratified UNCAC.
The campaign slogan “Your NO Counts” emphasizes individual responsibility in combating corruption.
Corruption costs an estimated 5% of global GDP annually, according to the UN.

Quiz

When is International Anti-Corruption Day celebrated?
(Answer: December 9)
What is the official hashtag for this day?
(Answer: #UnitedAgainstCorruption)
Which organization initiated this observance?
(Answer: United Nations General Assembly)

FAQs

Q1: What is the purpose of International Anti-Corruption Day?
A1: To raise awareness about corruption and promote global efforts to combat it.

Q2: How does corruption affect society?
A2: It undermines democracy, slows economic growth, and fosters inequality.

Q3: What is UNCAC?
A3: The United Nations Convention Against Corruption, a global treaty to combat corruption.

Importance of International Anti-Corruption Day

This day emphasizes collective action against corruption to build a fairer society. By promoting integrity and good governance, it contributes to achieving sustainable development goals like reducing poverty and ensuring justice.