Financial Crime World

Cameroon’s Efforts to Combat Corruption: Progress and Challenges

Yaoundé, Cameroon - As part of its efforts to combat corruption, Cameroon has taken steps to strengthen its legislative framework and enhance international cooperation. However, despite these efforts, the country still faces challenges in implementing the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC).

Annual Report Highlights Need for Improvement

The latest annual report from Cameroon’s National Anticorruption Commission (CONAC) highlights several areas where the country needs to improve its implementation of UNCAC. The report identifies a range of issues, including:

  • Broadening the definition of public officials: To include members of parliament and elected officials not employed by the state.
  • Criminalizing indirect bribery: And benefits accruing to third parties for all bribery offenses.
  • Expanding legislation: To address offering or giving of an undue advantage to procure influence.
  • Establishing a comprehensive offense of bribery in the private sector.

Legislative Reforms Needed

To combat corruption effectively, Cameroon needs to reform its laws to align with international standards. Specifically:

  • Broaden the definition of public officials to include members of parliament and elected officials not employed by the state.
  • Criminalize indirect bribery and benefits accruing to third parties for all bribery offenses.
  • Expand legislation to address offering or giving of an undue advantage to procure influence.
  • Establish a comprehensive offense of bribery in the private sector.

International Cooperation Crucial

International cooperation is also essential in combating corruption. Cameroon needs to:

  • Strengthen its extradition laws and agreements: Particularly with countries that are signatories to UNCAC.
  • Enter into agreements or arrangements: With other states for the relocation of witnesses, experts, and victims who may be at risk of retaliation.

Technical Assistance Needed

To improve its implementation of UNCAC, Cameroon needs technical assistance from international organizations and development partners. The country has identified a need for:

  • Training and capacity-building programs: To enhance its anticorruption efforts.

Conclusion

While Cameroon has made some progress in combating corruption, there is still much work to be done. Strengthening the country’s legislative framework and enhancing international cooperation are crucial steps towards improving its implementation of UNCAC. With technical assistance and support from the international community, Cameroon can make significant strides in tackling corruption and promoting transparency and accountability.