Doha: During the Second Ministerial Meeting of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities of OIC Member States, hosted by the State of Qatar in Doha, 21 OIC Member States signed the Makkah Al Mukarramah Convention on Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Cooperation on November 27, 2024.
This historic event marks a significant step towards enhancing international cooperation in the fight against corruption. The simultaneous signing by 21 Member States is expected to expedite the ratification process and bring the Convention into effect more swiftly. It also reflects the Member States’ heightened awareness of the dangers posed by corruption and their commitment to strengthening anti-corruption efforts.
The General Secretariat has urged other Member States to join in signing and ratifying the Convention, emphasizing its importance in providing a framework for cooperation to combat this serious issue. Additionally, the Secretariat has called on Member States to sign and ratify other agreements and statutes to expand the scope of cooperation across various fields.
The signing ceremony was attended by high-level representatives from the participating Member States, who expressed their support for the Convention and their dedication to promoting integrity and transparency. The delegates discussed the urgent need for collaborative efforts in combating corruption and the critical role of shared strategies and resources.
Speakers at the event highlighted the multifaceted impact of corruption, including economic damage, social inequality, and erosion of public trust. They underscored the necessity of robust legal frameworks and international cooperation to tackle corruption and related crimes effectively. The Makkah Al Mukarramah Convention aims to facilitate the exchange of information, joint investigations, and capacity-building initiatives among the Member States.
The Convention is expected to be a pivotal tool in the global fight against corruption, fostering a united front among OIC Member States. It includes provisions for mutual legal assistance, asset recovery, and the protection of whistleblowers, ensuring comprehensive measures to address the complexities of corruption.
The General Secretariat reiterated its commitment to supporting Member States in implementing the Convention and enhancing their anti-corruption capabilities. The Secretariat also announced plans for future meetings and workshops to sustain momentum and share best practices.
The event concluded with a call to action, urging all OIC Member States to ratify the Convention and participate in ongoing efforts to create a corruption-free society.
