Pacific Anti-Corruption Factsheet

Pacific Anti-Corruption Factsheet

August 30, 2020

United Nations Convention against Corruption

The UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) is the first legally binding, global anti-corruption instrument. The Convention was adopted by the General Assembly in October 2003 and entered into force in December 2005. To date, 187 countries have become States parties to UNCAC, representing a ground-breaking commitment to tackle corruption. 

UNCAC is unique in its holistic approach, adopting prevention and enforcement measures, including mandatory requirements for criminalizing corrupt behaviours. The Convention also reflects the transnational nature of corruption, providing an international legal basis for enabling international cooperation and recovering proceeds of corruption (i.e. stolen assets). The important role of government, the private sector and civil society in fighting corruption is also emphasized.

The Convention includes an implementation review mechanism, whereby each State party is reviewed periodically by two other States parties on its implementation of UNCAC. The Convention also calls on each State party to provide technical assistance and training, and exchange information for the purpose of strengthening implementation.

Key Chapters of UNCAC

  • Chapter II: Preventative measures 
  • Chapter III: Criminalisation and law enforcement 
  • Chapter IV: International cooperation 
  • Chapter V: Asset recovery