Doha: Representatives of oversight, auditing, and anti-corruption agencies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries highlighted the significance of transforming national anti-corruption strategies into practical applications. They underscored the necessity of integrating legislative, institutional, and oversight frameworks to achieve integrity and transparency, particularly within the public sector. This discussion took place during a panel titled “GCC National Anti-Corruption Strategies: Policy to Practice,” held alongside the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption in Doha.
According to Qatar News Agency, Consultant Sultan bin Nasser Al Suwaidi, Assistant Secretary-General for Legislative and Legal Affairs at the GCC General Secretariat, stated that combating corruption has become a central pillar for sustainable development, governance, and economic and social stability. The “Al Ula Declaration,” issued by the 41st session of the GCC Supreme Council in 2021, stressed the importance of mechanisms for integrity, efficiency, governance, transparency, accountability, and collaboration within the GCC framework, benefiting from international agreements like the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
His Excellency Al Suwaidi affirmed that GCC countries would continue their institutional efforts in this direction, as acknowledged by the Supreme Council at its 46th session in Manama, Bahrain. These efforts have strengthened governance, transparency, accountability, integrity, and anti-corruption tools through joint Gulf initiatives. He highlighted that the GCC’s anti-corruption system has progressed from strategic planning to achieving tangible impacts, enhancing its position in the global integrity system.
Al Suwaidi further explained that the conference in Doha signifies a shared understanding that real challenges lie in translating strategies into measurable programs and tangible societal and economic effects. He emphasized the GCC’s strategic framework for unifying national anti-corruption efforts, ensuring consistent and integrated executive practices.
Dr. Hatem Fouad Ali, Regional Director of the GCC Office of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), highlighted the successful partnership between UNODC and GCC countries in advancing anti-corruption efforts. He noted that GCC countries have completed legislative systems to combat corruption, establishing laws and comprehensive national strategies. Collaboration with the GCC Secretariat-General has resulted in unified regional frameworks, enhancing the ability to confront corruption as a threat to social stability and economic growth.
Representatives from GCC countries shared their experiences in implementing anti-corruption strategies, emphasizing that success depends on integrating legislative frameworks, clarifying roles, and adopting practical tools. They stressed the need for awareness and training initiatives to build an institutional culture of integrity and transparency.
The officials also discussed employing modern technologies and artificial intelligence in oversight work, using digital platforms for auditing and monitoring. They affirmed that sustainability in anti-corruption efforts requires periodic evaluation, corrective measures, and protection for whistleblowers, which boosts public confidence in the justice system. The session concluded with a commitment to strengthening cooperation, exchanging experiences, and transforming national strategies into sustainable practices.