Remarks by the President of the General Assembly,

Mr. Dennis Francis,

to the UNCAC 20th Anniversary

6 November 2023

Video link: https://youtu.be/cwMki5xG_fc

[As Delivered]

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Today we convene to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the UN Convention Against Corruption – an occasion to draw strength from the unwavering unity that binds us in our pursuit of justice and transparency.

I take this opportunity to express my profound gratitude to Ms. Waly, UNODC Executive Director, and to the Permanent Mission of Mexico, for extending this kind invitation to me.

The historic adoption of UNCAC and its subsequent ratification by 190 States Parties marked a significant milestone; demonstrating the international community’s resolute dedication to eradicating the scourge of corruption from society.

UNCAC’s comprehensive approach provides unparalleled tools in supporting Member States to address this challenge – from corruption prevention to the return of stolen assets.

 

In this context, I appreciate UNODC’s role as the Convention’s custodian and the Secretariat of the Conference of States Parties.

 

Excellencies,

We all know the insidious threat corruption poses to societies.

We also know how pervasively uncontrollable it becomes when institutionalized.

To a significant degree, the successful achievement of the 2030 Agenda hinges upon our capability to proactively prevent and combat corruption.

Effective anti-corruption efforts are key to the fulfillment of the 2030 Agenda – because such efforts support and bolster domestic resource mobilization, which is so critical in funding the SDGs. 

If we are to be successful in achieving the 2030 Agenda and its 17 Goals, we must ensure that we strengthen all revenue collection mechanisms so that every penny generated by the economy is properly accounted for.

Excellencies,

As rightly expressed by the Secretary-General in his “Our Common Agenda” report, combating corruption is fundamental to building trust and ensuring a more just and equitable world.

The threat corruption poses to the institutions and to democratic values; to ethics and justice; and ultimately, to the rule of law, good governance, and the entire sustainable development agenda, is real.

 

UNCAC – and the relentless fight it spearheads against corruption – is therefore critical to promoting peaceful and inclusive societies, providing access to justice for all, and building effective and accountable systems and institutions, at all levels, in the interest of transparency and good governance.

In June 2021, at the Special Session of the General Assembly against corruption, Member States reaffirmed their commitment to UNCAC as the most comprehensive, legally binding anti-corruption tool, recognizing its crucial role in advancing the 2030 Agenda.

Let us build on that momentum by reiterating our commitment to this indispensable instrument, noting our achievements, recognizing the challenges ahead, and motivated to keep in mind that a corruption-free world is not only attainable, but is absolutely imperative for global peace, justice, and sustainable development.

Together, we can, and must, build a brighter and more equitable future.

I wish you fruitful deliberations today, and at the 10th Conference of States Parties in Atlanta in December.

Thank you.