International Anti-Corruption Day History

International Anti-Corruption Day aims to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of corruption on societies worldwide and to promote measures to combat it. This global observance encourages governments to implement the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) to promote transparency, accountability, and integrity. It is crucial to tackle corruption as it significantly threatens economic growth, social development, and political stability, affecting both developed and developing nations.

International Anti-Corruption Day was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2003 and is observed annually on 9th December. The government is committed to fighting corruption domestically and internationally in the United Kingdom. The UK has implemented various measures to address corrupt practices such as bribery, money laundering, and tax evasion. These efforts are demonstrated by the country's significant progress in Transparency International's Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 11th out of 180 countries in the 2020 index.

To mark International Anti-Corruption Day in the UK, different events and initiatives are organized to raise awareness about the importance of anti-corruption efforts. These activities may include workshops, conferences, campaigns, and research presentations to engage various government, private sector, civil society, and general public stakeholders. The UK's participation in the international observance reminds of the vital importance of combating corruption by promoting good governance, integrity, and transparency at all levels.

Top 2 Facts for 2026 International Anti-Corruption Day in the UK

• The UK government has made efforts to improve corporate transparency and tackle money laundering through the introduction of the Persons of Significant Control (PSC) register. This public register identifies individuals who own or control more than 25% of a company's shares, voting rights, or have significant control or influence over the company.
• The UK has strong whistleblower protection in place through the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998. This act protects employees who come forward with information about bribery, fraud, or other corrupt activities, from being dismissed or facing retaliation by their employers.

In the News and Trending in the UK for International Anti-Corruption Day

Top things to do in the UK for this observance

• Spend time reading and researching the Panama Papers problems which exposed corruption of high-standing politicians and companies worldwide.
• Raise awareness on social media by using the hashtags #BreaktheChain, #InternationalAnti-CorruptionDay and #EndCorruption.
• Write to MPs or government officials, urging them to prioritize anti-corruption legislation and enforcement. Support initiatives that aim to improve transparency in government and business operations.
• Collaborate with media outlets to encourage investigative journalism focused on exposing corrupt practices or individuals. Support journalists who are working on anti-corruption stories by organizing events or providing resources.