International Anti-Corruption Day is a day when governments, citizens, and businesses can work toward renewing their commitment to helping end the impact of corruption on people’s lives all over the globe.

Corruption is a cancer that gnaws at the foundations of our democratic institutions and chips away at our freedoms and security. However, people can take the initiative, beginning on December 9th, to help clear out as much corruption as possible.

The History of International Anti-Corruption Day

This holiday was first observed on December 9th, 2003, after the United Nations Convention Against Corruption passed a resolution for it on October 31, 2003. It has since been an important holiday for spreading the word about global corruption. It became particularly important after it became apparent that the COVID-19 pandemic created the perfect conditions for an increase in global corruption.

Facts About Corruption

We’ve uncovered some stunning facts about corruption, so we decided that we would share them below. The following are corruption facts that everyone should know about and will hopefully encourage anyone reading this to take action against corruption.

• Every single year, over 1 trillion USD is paid in bribes all over the world.
• Even though 70% of the people in Nigeria live on $1 a day, the late Nigerian dictator Sani Abacha looted and exported over USD 2 billion.
• Studies show that nations that improve their rule of law by reducing corruption can increase national income by over 400%.
• The least corrupt countries in the world are Denmark, Finland, New Zealand, and Sweden.
• North Korea and Somalia are the most corrupt countries.

Observing International Anti-Corruption Day

This holiday is intended to be observed with action. Businesses and citizens should take the time to increase public awareness of corruption and to lobby politicians to end systemic corrupt practices. It’s also a day when people give speeches about corruption and distribute anti-corruption materials to the community. To spread the word online, use the hashtag #EndCorruptionNow on your social media accounts.