I am pleased to join the Integrity Commission, and all anti-corruption agencies around the world, in observing International Anti-Corruption Day. Under the theme “UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World Against Corruption”, we reflect on the progress made and the challenges that lie ahead. Twenty years ago, the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) was born out of a shared understanding that corruption undermines the social, economic and cultural fabric of our societies. Corruption corrodes the foundations of justice, equality, and progress. Its parasitic nature weakens our institutions and erodes public trust. Our commitment to the UNCAC should therefore not be mere empty rhetoric, but embody a steadfast dedication to implementing its principles. We must stand resolute in pursuit of the eradication of the pervasive threat that corruption poses to our society. As leaders, this must include our genuine support for the public institutions that have been established to lead in the fight against corruption, in particular the Integrity Commission, and a courageous commitment to preserving those institutions from all internal and external threats. Indeed, we need to strengthen those institutions to ensure greater transparency and accountability in governance, while at the same time ensuring due process and fairness in the execution of their responsibilities. As we mark the UNCAC’s 20th anniversary, let us renew our pledge to forging a more just and equitable society, in which public institutions of governance will enjoy the trust and confidence of our people. To achieve this, we must demand accountability, champion transparency, and foster a culture of integrity. As the first signatory of the Integrity Commission’s Leadership Code of Conduct, I use this opportunity to reaffirm my commitment to building a society in which the scourge of corruption is eliminated, and pledge my support for International Anti-Corruption Day as an important annual symbol of this noble struggle. The commemoration of International Anti-Corruption Day on December 9, 2023, under the theme, “UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World against Corruption,” impels us as a country to reflect on Jamaica’s continuous efforts in the global fight against corruption. In our nation, the battle against corruption is a shared responsibility, and the observance of this day serves as a reminder of our collective commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable society, in keeping with our laws. The Integrity Commission, as a key local anti-corruption agency, plays a pivotal role in upholding the values of integrity within our public institutions. It is through institutions like these that we reinforce our dedication to good governance and ethical conduct. As we mark two decades of international cooperation under the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), let us renew our focus on building a Jamaica where corruption finds no refuge. The principles embedded in UNCAC provide us with a framework to strengthen our national resolve against corruption. May this day inspire renewed vigour in our efforts, and let us, as a nation, stand united against corruption, ensuring that our actions today shape a future where transparency and integrity prevail. The adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in October 2003 signalled a recognition that the fight against corruption knows no borders. It emphasised that the fight against corruption involved a cohesive and sustained response by agents in every sector, and at every level of society. As a state party to the UNCAC, Jamaica is actively involved in the fight against corruption. The Jamaican government has demonstrated its commitment to tackling corruption through the enactment of several key pieces of legislation, and the creation and empowerment of anti-corruption agencies tasked with fighting corruption in both the public and private sectors. In this regard, I applaud the Integrity Commission for the role it has played in the fight against corruption. Much has been done to prevent, stem and expose corruption. However, more needs to be done. International Anti-Corruption Day provides us with the opportunity to reflect on our actions over the past 20 years and to identify areas where we need to focus our efforts in the years to come, including the role and functions of the anti-corruption agencies themselves. In charting the way forward, we must recognise that we ought not to rely solely on the efforts of anti-corruption bodies to eradicate the scourge of corruption from our society. It is the duty of every well-thinking Jamaican to fight against corruption in whatever form it takes. I have the pleasure of extending warm greetings as we mark International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) under the theme “UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World Against Corruption.” The Integrity Commission has been steadfast in its commitment to combating corruption in Jamaica, and today’s commemoration is an important reminder of the collective responsibility we bear in fostering a society free from the shackles of corruption. Indeed, the foundation of any strong democracy lies in fostering integrity, transparency and accountability. Upholding these principles is not just a commitment to good governance but a critical step towards enhancing social cohesion and driving economic progress. Whilst we have made significant strides as a politically independent country, we could have achieved much more were it not for corruption in many forms. Considering this, the work of the Integrity Commission is crucial. I am therefore pleased to note its work to expand public sensitization programmes and improve investigative performance and technical proficiency, all of which represent a comprehensive approach to addressing corruption. I also commend the Commission’s efforts to strengthen awareness and compliance in public bodies, as well as its dedication to improving responsiveness to complaints and reports. The emphasis on public engagement and education is commendable. This encourages our fellow citizens to actively participate in efforts to curb and end corruption while ensuring a clear understanding of the Commission’s role. As we collectively strive for a corruption-free society, I urge the Integrity Commission to continue its work across Jamaica. The government continues to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity to ensure that Jamaica emerges as a shining example of good governance. As we recognise International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) 2023 under the theme “UNCAC at 20: Uniting the World Against Corruption,” I am delighted to add my voice to a discussion that is of importance to all Jamaicans. It is a privilege to serve not only as your Minister of Tourism but also in parliamentary roles crucial to our nation’s integrity. In my capacity as Chairman of the Integrity Commission Oversight Committee of Parliament and the Joint Select Committee reviewing the Integrity Commission Act, I recognise the important role strong legislation plays in eliminating corruption. This year’s global campaign prompts us to reflect on the role of anti-corruption agencies in maintaining an equitable society. The Integrity Commission, in commemoration, has published this supplement to aid in bringing awareness to its functions and encourage citizens to join the fight against corruption. Their unwavering dedication is essential to the drive to uphold our democratic ideals. The Government of Jamaica remains committed to transparency and fairness and will continue to maintain a stellar track record in supporting anti-corruption efforts. We urge every Jamaican to join us and the international community in this critical fight. Let us stand united against corruption, ensuring a Jamaica where every citizen has equal access and opportunity. Together, we can create a nation that thrives on integrity, accountability and justice for all. THE PRIME MINISTER The Most Hon. Andrew Holness, ON, PC, MP THE LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION The Hon. Mark Golding, MP THE PRESIDENT OF THE SENATE Sen. the Hon. Thomas Tavares-Finson, OJ, CD, KC, JP SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Most Honourable Juliet Holness, MP CHAIRMAN INTEGRITY COMMISSION PARLIAMENT OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE/CHAIRMAN JOINT SELECT COMMITTEE REVIEWING THE INTEGRITY COMMISSION ACT Hon. Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP
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