Combating Corruption in Haiti: UNODC, UNDP, and EMA Join Forces
Strengthening the Fight against Corruption
PORT-AU-PRINCE, FEBRUARY 22, 2024 - The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the School of Magistracy (EMA), have launched a comprehensive training program for 20 magistrates to combat corruption in Haiti.
Enhancing Professional and Ethical Awareness
The three-day training aimed to equip judicial officials with the necessary theoretical foundation and practical skills to effectively identify, investigate, and prosecute corruption-related crimes. By recognizing the crucial role of magistrates in combating corruption, the initiative sought to enhance their professional and ethical awareness, fostering a culture of integrity and diligence within the judiciary.
Key Topics Covered
During the training program, key topics were covered, including:
- The United Nations Convention against Corruption and its review mechanism in Haiti
- In-depth analysis of the concept of corruption
- Legal bases for incrimination and prevention
- The role of political, administrative, and judicial institutions in preventing and combating corruption
- Various types of related offenses
Empowering Magistrates to Combat Corruption
The training was designed to empower magistrates with the knowledge and skills necessary to tackle corruption, a pervasive issue that perpetuates impunity for crimes committed and undermines the judicial system’s ability to provide justice.
Success of the Training Program
Maguy Florestal, Magistrate Director of Studies at the School of Magistracy, praised the training, stating that it provided an opportunity to analyze national and international legislation on corruption, identify the stakes, and acquire new investigative techniques. She extended gratitude to the trainers, UNDP, UNODC, and the Canadian government for their invaluable support in building capacity among Haitian judicial personnel.
Funding Support
The training was made possible through the support of the Canadian government and the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), implemented jointly with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and UNDP. The initiative underscores the importance of continued cooperation to combat corruption, a scourge that undermines Haiti’s institutions and social fabric.
Conclusion
With the training complete, Haitian magistrates are now better equipped to tackle corruption, ensuring a more effective and efficient administration of justice in the country.