Bhutan’s Anti-Corruption Agency Remains Strong but Faces Challenges
Maintaining High Performance Standards
Despite facing challenges, Bhutan’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has maintained its high performance standards. According to a recent assessment by Transparency International, 66% of 50 measured indicators were rated as high and 30% as moderate.
- Key areas of strength:
- Modest improvements in resources
- Internal reporting and external oversight
- Challenges ahead:
- Decline in detection and investigation capabilities
- Limited proactive investigations based on commission’s own intelligence
Recommendations for Improvement
Transparency International recommends that the ACC focuses on systemic problems that increase the risk of abuse of power and conflicts of interest. The agency should also:
- Initiate more proactive investigations: Focus on tackling corruption proactively rather than just reacting to reports.
- Engage with all sectors of society: Collaborate with external stakeholders on education materials and campaigns to promote transparency and good governance.
Strengthening the Enabling Environment
To support the ACC’s efforts, Bhutan’s parliament is urged to take two key steps:
- Pass amendments to the Anti-Corruption Act: Grant the ACC autonomy over its organisational structure and staff appointments.
- Prioritize passage of the Right to Information Bill: Increase transparency across public sector agencies.
Conclusion
The assessment highlights the importance of a well-functioning anti-corruption agency in good governance and recommends continued support for the commission’s efforts to tackle corruption in Bhutan.