United Nations on Drug and Crime

The role of civil society in countering corruption

Introduction to the committee:

UNODC is a global leader in addressing the problem of illicit drug use and transnational
crime and is mandated to assist Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs, crime,
and terrorism. UNODC has an important role in assisting States Parties to the international
conventions in the implementation of their obligations under the international drug control
treaties (the Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 (as amended in 1972), the
Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971, and the United Nations Convention against
Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances of 1988), the UN Convention
against Transnational Organized Crime and its Protocols and the UN Convention Against
Corruption, as well as international anti-terrorism instruments. Acting as the custodian of
United Nations standards and norms in crime prevention and criminal justice, UNODC has
the mandate to assist Member States in reforming their criminal justice systems to ensure the
practical application of these standards.

Introduction to the Agenda:

Civil society refers to the realm of non-governmental, voluntary organizations that operate
independently of both the government and the private sector. It encompasses a wide range of
groups, from NGOs to community organizations, and serves various functions:

● Voluntary participation: People join civil society organizations willingly.

● Non-governmental: These groups are separate from government control.
● Advocacy and activism: They work to promote various causes and engage in public
awareness campaigns.
● Service provision: Some offer essential services, especially in underserved areas.
● Watchdog function: They monitor government actions and hold officials accountable.
● A bridge between citizens and government: Civil society organizations facilitate
communication between citizens and policymakers.
● Fostering social cohesion: They bring people together for common purposes,
promoting community engagement.

Examples include human rights groups, environmental organizations, and charities. In

democratic societies, civil society plays a vital role in citizen participation, expression of
opinions, and influencing public decisions.

Corruption is a dishonest and unethical behavior characterized by the abuse of power,

position, or authority for personal gain or to achieve improper or illegal benefits. It typically
involves individuals in positions of trust, such as government officials, public servants,
business leaders, or professionals, using their influence or authority in ways that violate
established rules, laws, or ethical standards.
Civil societies can combat corruption by:
Watchdog and Accountability: Civil society organizations often act as watchdogs, monitoring
government actions and holding officials accountable for corrupt practices. They expose
corruption scandals, raise public awareness, and put pressure on authorities to take action
against corrupt individuals or institutions.
Advocacy for Anti-Corruption Measures: Many civil society groups advocate for stronger
anti-corruption measures, transparency, and accountability in government and business. They
may push for the enactment and enforcement of anti-corruption laws and the establishment of
independent anti-corruption agencies.
Promoting Ethical Behavior: Civil society organizations promote ethical behavior and
integrity within society. They may provide education and training on ethical standards and
encourage individuals and institutions to resist engaging in corrupt practices.

Subtopics:

1. Empowering civil society organizations to participate in anti-corruption efforts

2. Promoting transparency and accountability in government and the private sector
3. Educating the public about corruption and its harmful effects
4. Protecting civil society activists from intimidation and reprisals
5. Enhancing Whistleblower Protection Laws
6. Public Procurement Transparency
7. Civil Society-Led Anti-Corruption Awareness Campaigns
8. Collaboration Between Civil Society and Media
9. Strengthening Ethics Education in Schools
10. Engaging the Private Sector in Anti-Corruption Efforts
11. Empowering Local Communities
12. Gender-Responsive Anti-Corruption Measures
13. Using Technology for Transparent Governance
14. Community-Based Corruption Prevention Programs
15. Monitoring of Political Financing
16. Capacity Building for Anti-Corruption Activists
17. Engaging Youth in Civic Anti-Corruption Initiatives
18. Cross-Border Anti-Corruption Collaboration
19. Impact Measurement and Reporting

Framework and conventions:

Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 (as amended in 1972)
The Convention on Psychotropic Substances of 1971
the United Nations Convention against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances of 1988
UNCAC

Case studies:
Case Study: Transparency International's Impact on Ukraine
Past Resolutions:
● United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC)
● Resolution 58/4 - United Nations Global Compact
● Resolution 64/139 - United Nations Principles and Guidelines on Access to Legal Aid
in Criminal Justice Systems
● Resolution 58/7 - United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime
● Resolution 66/136 - High-Level Meeting of the General Assembly on the Rule of Law
at the National and International Levels
● Resolution 58/4 - Measures to Prevent and Combat Corruption and Strengthen
International Cooperation
● Resolution 58/10 - Strengthening the Role of the United Nations in Enhancing
International Cooperation in the Fight against Corruption

Relation of the agendas with SDGs:

The topic of "The Role of Civil Society in Countering Corruption" is closely related to the
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. Corruption impacts
various aspects of sustainable development, making it crucial to achieving many SDGs. This
topic intersects with SDG 16, which directly addresses corruption within the context of
promoting peaceful societies and strong institutions. Additionally, it aligns with several other
SDGs, including gender equality, quality education, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities,
and good health. Civil society plays a critical role in advocating for transparency,
accountability, and equitable policies, contributing to progress in these areas and the broader
SDG agenda. Countering corruption is integral to achieving sustainable development and
creating a more just and equitable world.
Bibliography

E. (n.d.). Overview.
https://www.unodc.org/southeasterneurope/en/overview.html#:~:text=UNODC%20is%20a%
20global%20leader,illicit%20drugs%2C%20crime%20and%20terrorism.