The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) on October 31, 2003, and designated December 9 as International Anti-Corruption Day. The purpose of this global observance is to raise awareness about corruption and mobilize international resolve to prevent, combat and eliminate corrupt practices. The Convention, which came into force in December 2005, underscores the seriousness with which the world must treat corruption, given the “problems and threats posed by corruption to the stability and security of societies, undermining the institutions and values of democracy, ethical values and justice, and jeopardizing sustainable development and the rule of law.”
Corruption, unfortunately, is neither new nor isolated to a few states. It is a global phenomenon that continues to haunt societies and governments. Pakistan too has witnessed the corrosive impact of corruption over the decades. Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, foreseeing the dangers of this menace, had warned the nation against corruption and bribery at the very inception of Pakistan in 1947. For many years after independence, the moral strength of society and the clarity of national ideology ensured that corruption remained rare, both among the masses and within political elites. As a result, Pakistan experienced socio-economic stability despite political fluctuations and even the trauma of the 1971 disintegration.
It was during the 1990s, however, that corruption began to penetrate the political and administrative structures of the country. This decade, which otherwise ushered in democracy, freedom of expression and the right to information, also witnessed a surge in dishonesty, financial embezzlement and other deceitful practices. Public demand for accountability grew louder than ever before. The broad spectrum of corrupt activities is; bribery, graft, nepotism, abuse of discretion and favouritism, all eroding the legitimacy of institutions. Whether enacted by political elites, government servants or sections of the bureaucracy, these practices left deep marks on Pakistani society.
One of the most damaging impacts of corruption was the weakening of Pakistan’s moral and social fabric. Traditionally, Pakistani culture valued honesty, fairness, respect, mutual regard and social ethics. Corruption was not only socially unacceptable; it was considered a grave moral offence. A person caught in bribery or embezzlement would find themselves ostracized, regardless of their family’s influence or social standing. This strong moral compass served as a powerful deterrent. Respect once reserved for honest and principled individuals has increasingly shifted toward those with wealth and influence, even when acquired through dubious means. Nepotism, bribery and violations of merit have become widespread. In many segments of society, corrupt individuals enjoy more prestige than those who adhere to integrity and fairness. This reversal of values has deeply harmed the nation’s social, public and institutional character.
A primary responsibility of any state is to safeguard the basic rights and well-being of its citizens, security of life, access to food, education, healthcare, justice and a sense of dignity. These foundations enable citizens to enjoy “freedom from poverty, freedom from servitude and a quality of life where they are able to live without fear of injustice and tyranny.” Corruption is the single most powerful force that undermines these objectives.
Today, corruption has not only weakened Pakistan’s governance system but has impeded development. What began in isolated pockets has now spread across government departments and public sector institutions. Inequalities have deepened in the absence of an impartial system of accountability. As noted by the UN, corruption undermines democratic institutions, slows economic development and contributes to governmental instability. In Pakistan, rampant corruption has contributed to rising poverty, unemployment and social unrest.
Against this backdrop, the theme for International Anti-Corruption Day 2025 is; “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity”. It carries profound significance. This theme, extended through 2026, underscores the critical role that youth must play in building a transparent, fair and accountable future. Corruption deprives the youth of educational prospects, employment, participation in public life, fair competition in sports, healthcare and other essential services. At a global level, many of today’s tragedies, inequalities and injustices stem from corruption or are amplified by it.
Pakistan’s youth, who constitute more than 60% of the population, hold immense potential as agents of change. Their involvement is essential in promoting accountability, advocating fairness and fostering a culture of integrity across both public and private sectors. Empowering youth through education, civic engagement, digital literacy and platforms for anti-corruption advocacy is crucial for shaping a better tomorrow.
International Anti-Corruption Day thus serves as a reminder that while corruption challenges governance and stability, its defeat is possible when societies especially their younger generationsunite with a shared resolve. Building an ethical Pakistan requires collective commitment, strong institutions, public awareness and an unwavering dedication to integrity. Above all, it requires a national culture that once again honours honesty, merit and justice as core values.
— The writer is Professor of Politics and IR at International Islamic University, Islamabad.
