BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group Meets
The Moscow Mandate: Combating Corruption
The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) convened for its third and final meeting of the year on 26-27 August 2024, in Vienna, Austria. Under the Russian Chairship, the meeting saw significant progress in implementing anti-corruption priorities, further solidifying BRICS’ commitment to combating corruption.
A Strong Foundation: Adopting Key Documents
The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group has made significant strides in implementing anti-corruption priorities. H.E. Mikhail Ulyanov underscored this progress in his opening address. Subsequently, the group adopted two pivotal documents. These papers will lay the groundwork for future anti-corruption initiatives within the BRICS framework. Notably, one document focuses on Asset Recovery and enhanced cooperation. Meanwhile, the other emphasizes education and capacity-building in the anti-corruption sphere. The collaborative body’s efforts demonstrate a united front against corruption.
Asset Recovery: A Key Challenge
Furthermore, the ACWG had a substantial discussion on asset recovery in BRICS countries, with the release of the first analytical paper by the ACWG. This paper, based on information provided by member States, defines the most important challenges countries encounter in repatriating proceeds of crime and ways to address them. This significant step forward demonstrates BRICS’ commitment to tackling the complex issue of asset recovery.
Safeguarding Sport: A Shared Concern
The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group co-hosted a conference with UNODC on safeguarding sport from corruption. This event built upon a 2018 forum and supported the implementation of resolution 8/4. Furthermore, the gathering emphasized the importance of Asset Recovery in sports. Correspondingly, the assembly highlighted the inadmissibility of discrimination in athletics. The coalition also promoted UNODC’s Global Report on Corruption in Sport, financially backed by Russia. In essence, this collaborative effort underscored the group’s commitment to maintaining integrity in sports. Henceforth, the anti-graft body continues to champion fair play and transparency in athletic competitions.
Looking Ahead: Future Directions
The ACWG deliverables are to be reflected in the BRICS Summit declaration, to be adopted during the leaders meeting in Kazan. Moreover, Brazil, taking over the BRICS Chairship from Russia, has expressed its intention to preserve the continuity of the ACWG agenda. This ensures that the momentum gained in combating corruption will be sustained, and the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group will continue to play a vital role in shaping the global anti-corruption landscape.
The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group meeting marked significant progress in combating corruption, with key documents adopted and future directions set. As the BRICS Chairship transitions to Brazil, the continuity of the ACWG agenda will ensure sustained efforts in the fight against corruption. This meeting demonstrates BRICS’ steadfast commitment to tackling corruption, a crucial step towards strengthening economic cooperation and promoting sustainable development among its member States.