UNIS/SGSM/1373
11 December 2023
I am pleased to address this Conference of Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, and I thank the United States for hosting this important meeting.
For two decades, the Convention has been a guiding light in our efforts against corruption. While we have made significant strides, corruption remains a real threat around the globe.
Corruption not only robs resources, it robs people of hope. Corruption undermines development. Corruption subverts social cohesion and exacerbates inequalities. Corruption fuels distrust in institutions.
Today, the world must leverage the universal goals of the Convention to advance accountability, integrity, and transparency.
To safeguard the rule of law and human rights, and restore trust in a world mired by conflict and violence. To rescue the Sustainable Development Goals and leave no one behind. To protect the environment and enable an effective response to the existential threat of climate change. And to put an end, once and for all, to impunity.
I call on all Parties to use this opportunity to strengthen international cooperation to prevent, detect, and prosecute corruption – in partnership with civil society and the private sector.
Together, we can build resilient institutions, empower citizens, and build a future of justice and equality.
Thank you.
* *** *
"On World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, we celebrate the power of communication tools to change lives for the better." — António Guterres
"On this International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia and Transphobia, I applaud the brave work of LGBTIQ+ human rights defenders fighting to outlaw discrimination and secure equality before the law." — António Guterres
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime’s (UNODC) new World Wildlife Crime Report finds that – despite positive signs in reducing trafficking impacts for some iconic species like elephants and rhinoceros – wildlife trafficking overall has not been substantially reduced over two decades.
The 33rd Session will bring together participants from Member States, UN entities, inter-governmental organizations, and civil society in Vienna and online.