Financial Crime World

Corruption: The Silent Menace Threatening Palestinian Development

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As Palestine continues its quest for independence, a pervasive threat looms in the shadows, threatening to undermine all progress. Corruption, a silent menace, has become an entrenched issue in the country’s administrative and institutional systems.

The Absence of the Palestinian Legislative Council

The ongoing absence of the Palestinian Legislative Council (PLC) has hindered efforts to develop preventive measures against corruption, leaving legislative reviews and oversight functions in limbo. However, a draft law on access to information is awaiting endorsement from the Council of Ministers, a crucial step towards strengthening anti-corruption measures.

Efforts to Combat Corruption

Government and semi-governmental organizations are working tirelessly to develop procedures regulating institutional functioning and individual conduct.

  • The General Personnel Council (GPC) has issued criteria for recruitment, promotion, scholarship, and punishment.
  • The national committee has developed a code of conduct for public employees.

However, implementation is key, and many codes remain unimplemented. For example:

  • The Ministry of Local Government has issued a code of conduct for local council employees, but it remains to be seen when these guidelines will take effect.

Upgrading Public Procurement System

The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) has made significant strides in upgrading its public procurement system. Despite the promulgation of the Public Procurement Decree-Law No. 8 of 2014, employed procedures remain based on outdated laws.

Enhancing Internal Oversight

Internal oversight is another area where efforts are being made to enhance transparency and accountability within state institutions. The State Audit Bureau (SAACB) has finalized a report reviewing internal oversight systems in various organizations, making recommendations for improvement.

Challenges and Future Directions

More work needs to be done to strengthen preventive measures, particularly in civil society organizations, Palestinian diplomatic bodies, and official sectors with higher corruption risks.

The goal is clear: to create a deterring legislative and institutional environment that reduces opportunities for corruption. To achieve this, the following objectives must be met:

  • Strengthen and enhance measures required to prevent corruption crimes and update instruments and means for combating them.
  • Enhance the legislative environment regulating government work and agencies subject to anti-corruption law.

Conclusion

These efforts are crucial in building a sound and modern governance system, facilitating the implementation of Palestine’s overall national vision of ending occupation and building an independent, corruption-free state.