A group of UN human rights experts recently issued a joint statement urging States Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) to protect and expand civic space in anti-corruption efforts, both nationally and globally. The experts also called for greater transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability in the UNCAC review mechanism.
The UNCAC Coalition welcomed this unprecedented call to action, which comes as States begin informal negotiations on the future of the UNCAC review mechanism. This engagement marks an important step in linking anti-corruption efforts with human rights and civic participation.
The experts highlighted several urgent actions:
- Make the UNCAC review mechanism more inclusive and transparent: This includes publishing NGO submissions, reviewing timelines, and providing opportunities for civil society to engage meaningfully.
- Launch consultations with civil society: Ensuring civic engagement becomes a norm, not an exception, in UNCAC processes.
- Promote transparency in UNCAC fora: Grant NGOs observer status, safeguard participation, and involve civil society in follow-up activities.
- Establish a global mechanism to track reprisals against anti-corruption defenders:This includes safe reporting platforms and coordinated responses to protect civic actors.
- Integrate human rights and anti-corruption frameworks:Promote deeper collaboration between UNCAC bodies and Human Rights Council special procedures.
The UN experts emphasize:
“Civil society is not an obstacle but an indispensable partner in combating corruption and promoting human rights.”
The UNCAC Coalition encourages governments, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to share this important message widely and take concrete action to ensure civic space is protected and strengthened.
For further reading: OHCHR press release | UNCAC Coalition Statement
