Financial Crime World

Anti-Corruption Laws and Regulations in Palestinian Territory, Occupied: UK Aid Efforts

Introduction

Corruption is a pervasive issue that can hinder development prospects and undermine trust in institutions. The UK Department for International Development (DFID) is committed to reducing corruption in its partner countries, including the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPTs).

DFID’s Approach to Tackling Corruption

The Independent Commission on Aid Impact reviewed DFID’s approach to tackling corruption in November 2011 and found that it had a good awareness of fraud risks and took steps to safeguard UK funds. However, it recommended that DFID develop an explicit anti-corruption strategy for countries assessed as having a high risk of corruption. In response, DFID is producing anti-corruption strategies for each of its main partner countries, including the OPTs.

Protecting UK Aid Funds in the OPTs

In 2011, the West Bank and Gaza made progress in tackling corruption, with a score of -0.83 on the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). However, corruption remains a significant challenge in the region. DFID will continue to ensure integrity and value for money through various measures, including:

  • Ensuring the Palestinian Authority (PA) implements recommendations from recent beneficiary monitoring programs
  • Supporting UNRWA in implementing recommendations from its beneficiary feedback exercise
  • Providing tailored finance training for all staff

Supporting Efforts to Reduce Corruption in the OPTs

Over the next three years, DFID will support the PA in tackling corruption through several initiatives, including:

  • Continuing to support the PA’s public financial management
  • Strengthening Palestinian civil society
  • Promoting a robust joint donor approach to tackling corruption
  • Maintaining pressure on UNRWA to improve its decision-making and budget allocation systems

DFID will also pilot new technology to disseminate information on public services and promote community feedback, reducing the opportunity for corruption and increasing transparency and efficiency. Additionally, DFID will enhance dialogue with the PA on anti-corruption in areas such as security and public administration.

For More Information

For more information on the country program, visit www.dfid.gov.uk/where-we-work/middle-east–north-africa/opt.