Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the State Financial and Administrative Audit Institution, is joining the international community to observe International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, 2024. This annual event commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption by the UN General Assembly in 2003.

The theme for this year’s observance, ‘Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity,’ underscores the vital role of young people in combating corruption and promoting ethical values. The campaign highlights the importance of youth involvement in raising awareness about the negative impacts of corruption, engaging in dialogue, and devising innovative solutions to address the issue within their communities.

Shabib bin Nasser al Busaidi, Director General of the General Directorate of Legal Affairs and Chairman of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Promotion Committee, emphasised the central role of young people as leaders of integrity. He stated that the campaign sends a clear message about the importance of listening to the aspirations of youth and integrating their vision into efforts to build a system founded on transparency and ethical values. He added that such efforts align with Omani cultural identity and require collaboration across generations to establish a culture of integrity.

Oman has been actively working to strengthen its commitment to combating corruption since joining the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2013. The State Financial and Administrative Audit Institution, in coordination with various stakeholders, has developed an integrated system to enhance integrity within society. This includes updating relevant legislation and implementing the National Plan for Integrity Enhancement, which aligns with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

The institution has also rolled out a comprehensive awareness campaign to educate the public on the importance of integrity and the safeguarding of public funds. This campaign employs various media platforms and includes training programmes and lectures targeting school and university students, as well as professionals across different sectors. Collaboration with Sultan Qaboos University has ensured that anti-corruption principles are incorporated into academic frameworks, further embedding these values in future generations.

On the regional front, Oman ratified the Arab Convention to Combat Corruption in 2014 and has actively participated in related conferences and meetings. It also works closely with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in the Middle East and North Africa and is a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s anti-corruption committees. In recent years, Oman has joined both the Global Information Exchange Network and the Arab Anti-Corruption Network, strengthening its global engagement in the fight against corruption.

Shabib al Busaidi concluded by reaffirming Oman’s commitment to promoting integrity as a foundation for sustainable development. He stressed that the country is advancing a transparent and ethical approach to governance, aligned with the broader goals of Oman Vision 2040.

This year’s International Anti-Corruption Day highlights the collective responsibility to uphold ethical values, with Oman placing particular emphasis on the role of its youth in shaping a future free from corruption.