Augustas Ručinskas: the fight against corruption helps consolidate democracy and strengthen the rule of law
Augustas Ručinskas, Chancellor of the Ministry of Justice, participated in the 40th Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime. The symposium placed much emphasis on ensuring the effectiveness of international instruments to control corruption, discussed what international instruments would facilitate public–private cooperation, and would engage non-governmental organisations in the fight against corruption.
According to Mr Ručinskas, it is particularly important today to talk how the fight against corruption contributes to the promotion of human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
“Corruption in all its forms threatens the sustainable development of the country, creates discriminatory environment, and causes the state to lose resources needed for investment, for example, in public services, as well as in human rights. Therefore, we must ensure the participation of citizens in decision-making, ensure the implementation of the principles of equality, justice and accountability, and fight the manifestations of corruption systematically,” said Mr Ručinskas.
Mr Ručinskas noted the following fundamental issues and challenges in the area of corruption control:
- Global standardisation processes. International and national legislation and treaties setting global standards in the fight against corruption, such as the United Nations Convention against Corruption, etc.
- Legal system. This instrument obliges national authorities to adopt and enforce legislation to ensure the fight against corruption.
- Promotion of cooperation. International cooperation in the investigation and prosecution of corruption cases facilitates extradition and asset confiscation procedures across borders.
- Monitoring and peer review. These mechanisms enable countries to take concrete steps to fight corruption and increase transparency.
- Capacity building. Support for countries through international instruments in strengthening their national anti-corruption infrastructure (law enforcement authorities, courts, civil society (non-governmental) organisations).
Participation of civil society (non-governmental) organisations. Engagement of civil society in anti-corruption initiatives allows for more effective accountability of the public sector.
Challenges. Despite the implementation of international anti-corruption instruments, countries may lack the political will to implement anti-corruption measures. In addition, international instruments can insufficiently take into account cultural, political or economic contexts.
Additional efforts. Countries need strong legal systems, effective law enforcement authorities, independent judiciary and active civil society.
According to the Chancellor of the Ministry, the implementation of and compliance with anti-corruption measures is essential for ensuring human rights, promoting social cohesion and institutional accountability.
Last updated: 27-12-2023