Afghanistan’s Fight Against Corruption: A Step in the Right Direction?
The Government of Afghanistan has made significant progress in combating corruption since 2014, introducing various laws, policies, and reform measures. However, despite these efforts, institutional fragmentation remains a major challenge in the fight against corruption.
Breakthroughs in the Fight Against Corruption
In recent years, the country has seen major breakthroughs, including the introduction of anti-corruption laws and regulations. The Special Anti-Corruption Secretariat has been at the forefront of these efforts, working closely with civil society organizations (CSOs) to promote transparency and accountability.
Key Events in 2019
- Anti-Corruption Act and Law on Protection of Informants: In November, President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani signed into law the Anti-Corruption Act and the Law on Protection of Informants of Corruption Crimes. These laws aim to prevent corruption and promote transparency by providing protection for whistleblowers.
- International Anti-Corruption Day Commemoration: In December, the Special Anti-Corruption Secretariat commemorated International Anti-Corruption Day in cooperation with the United Nations in Afghanistan. The event brought together high-ranking officials, including President Ghani, Second Vice President Sarwar Danish, and the UN’s Special Representative to Afghanistan, Tedamichi Yumamoto.
Progress in Asset Registration
The country has also seen significant progress in the area of asset registration, with the process of collecting asset forms for all high-ranking government officials now complete. The aim of this initiative is to:
- Prevent corruption and embezzlement of public funds
- Establish a monitoring mechanism for the public and media
Challenges Remain
Despite these efforts, challenges remain. The Special Anti-Corruption Secretariat has faced criticism over modifications made to the composition of the Selection Committee of Anti-Corruption Commission, which some have seen as an attempt to undermine the role of CSOs in the fight against corruption.
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
However, the secretariat remains committed to its goal of promoting transparency and accountability in Afghanistan. In recent months, it has shared new benchmarks for the National Strategy for Combating Corruption with CSOs, seeking their input on how to best combat corruption.
Conclusion
As the country continues to grapple with corruption, it is clear that there is still much work to be done. However, with the commitment of government officials and civil society organizations, Afghanistan may finally be turning a corner in its fight against corruption.