International Anti-Corruption Day 2024, the UN Global Compact Network Bangladesh (UNGCNB) hosted a thought-provoking event on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at the Six Seasons Hotel, Dhaka. This year’s global theme, “Uniting with the Youth Against Corruption,” brought together young leaders, academia, corporate representatives, and civil society to mobilize collective action against corruption and foster a culture of transparency.
With just five years remaining to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, this event emphasized the critical role of youth in creating a corruption-free society. The Anti-Corruption Collective Action (ACCA) project, led by UNGCNB, has actively engaged university students across Bangladesh, highlighting their pivotal role as changemakers.
The event featured opening remarks by Shahamin S. Zaman, Executive Director of UNGCNB. Insights were also shared by prominent figures, including Dr. Iftekhar Zaman, Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh, and Mr. S.M. Naheeaan, National Programme Coordinator of UNODC Bangladesh.
The Honorable Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. Md. Rezaul Maksud Jahedi, further reinforced the government’s commitment to empowering young leaders in the fight against corruption.
A lively panel discussion titled “Youth as Change Agents in the Fight Against Corruption” featured university students from four leading institutions (BRAC University, Independent University Bangladesh, North South University, and the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh), who explored innovative approaches to tackling corruption in Bangladesh. Moderated by Barrister Tasnuva Shelley, the session underscored the youth’s potential to disrupt systemic corruption and drive impactful change through education, advocacy, and technological innovation.
The event highlighted the need for stronger partnerships between academia, the private sector, and civil society to promote anti-corruption initiatives and emphasized the importance of education and youth-driven innovation in fostering integrity.
A highlight of the event was the launch of the first-ever inter-university Integrity Competition titled “Corruption Through My Eyes,” which empowers students to creatively present their perspectives on corruption and propose solutions through innovative approaches such as visual storytelling, project proposals, and pitches. This competition aims to inspire future leaders to take an active role in building integrity and advocating for ethical practices, setting the stage for a new generation of ethical leaders and changemakers, committed to a transparent and accountable Bangladesh.
This gathering served as a significant step in uniting diverse stakeholders to amplify the message that corruption is not just a challenge for governments or corporations—it is a societal issue that requires the active participation of everyone, especially the youth.
