Building a symbolic bridge towards 9 December 2003, when the United Nations Convention against Corruption, previously adopted by the UN General Assembly, was opened for signing in Merida, Mexico, this date has been marked as International Anti-Corruption Day since 2005.

"Corruption is a criminal, immoral and the ultimate betrayal of public trust. It is even more damaging in times of crisis – as the world is experiencing now with the Covid-19 pandemic“, the UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has said recently.

As one of 187 signatories to the Convention, committed to adopting its recommendations and guidelines, understanding the messages and spirit, and achieving its goals, Montenegro is proud to join the celebration of this year's International Anti-Corruption Day. It is encouraged by the fact that it entered 2020 with the Corruption Perceptions Index above the regional average, and the best in the Western Balkans, but is also aware that it is passing stations on a long road full of challenges that can be dealt with by the engagement of each of its citizens and the society as a whole.

As part of the institutional response to corruption, which is, according to its legal function and scope of competence, the most visible one, the Agency for Prevention of Corruption will continue to work consistently to raise public awareness of the malignant impact of a phenomenon that undermines the foundations of democratic institutions, the rule of law and economic development.

By insisting on harmonization of its activities, both with the legislative framework and with moral norms and professional standards, through proactive approach and transparency, the Agency will persevere in its mission of decisive protection of public interest and contribution to further building of ethical infrastructure and the environment of public confidence in the rule of law.

By cooperating with other public institutions, media, the civil sector and partners in the European integration process, perceiving that they share common values and goals, the Agency for Prevention of Corruption is ready for continuous processes of upgrading experiences, strengthening its capacities and anti-corruption instruments.

Using the UN motto of this year's marking of 9 December "Recovery with Integrity", the Agency for Prevention of Corruption calls on citizens, recognizing the essential importance of their role, to contribute to the fight against corruption for the common good through responsible and proactive behaviour.

DIRECTOR

Jelena Perović