Muscat: Today, the Sultanate of Oman, represented by the State Audit Institution (SAI), participated in the global observance of International Anti-Corruption Day, celebrated annually on December 9. This day commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) by the UN General Assembly in 2003.
Under the theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow's Integrity,” the campaign emphasizes the vital role of youth as advocates for integrity. It harnesses the potential of young individuals to raise awareness about corruption and its effects on communities, encouraging their involvement in discussions and initiatives aimed at developing innovative strategies to combat corruption.
Shabeeb Nasser Al Busaidi, Director General of Legal Works and Head of the Integrity Promoting and Anti-Corruption Committee at SAI, stated that achieving this year's global message requires dedicated efforts and collaboration with youth to instill values that are integral to our Omani identity.
Since its accession to the United Nations Convention against Corruption in 2013, the SAI has been actively working with relevant stakeholders to create a comprehensive system that fosters integrity within society. This initiative includes the revision of pertinent legislation and the formulation of the National Integrity Promotion Plan. The SAI is committed to overseeing the execution of this plan and evaluating its effectiveness in partnership with the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit.
The SAI implements an annual media awareness initiative aimed at enhancing public understanding of the significance of integrity and the safeguarding of public funds. These initiatives focus on departments subject to audits as well as communities throughout Oman’s governorates. The campaign includes awareness programs that are shared through a variety of print, audio, visual, and social media channels to promote the values of integrity among all societal groups.
Additionally, the SAI coordinates joint training programs in partnership with relevant authorities. It conducts numerous awareness lectures for students at schools, colleges, and universities, including Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), as noted by Al Busaidi.
Al Busaidi emphasized Oman’s commitment to playing a significant regional role. He highlighted Oman’s endorsement of the Arab Anti-Corruption Convention under Royal Decree No. 28/2014, as well as its collaboration with the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development in the Middle East and North Africa, and participation in pertinent Arab and GCC meetings. He also mentioned Oman’s accession to the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities (GlobE) in 2023 and the Arab Anti-Corruption Network in 2024.
