Bangkok: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul led the declaration of intent on International Anti-Corruption Day, urging all sectors to uphold justice, honesty, and integrity. He emphasized that the government will resolutely crack down on corruption and set a goal for all agencies to develop concrete plans to increase transparency and improve CPI scores.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Anutin Charnvirakul, presided over the declaration of intent to combat corruption at the International Anti-Corruption Day (Thailand) event, themed “HERO OF THE TRUTH: Stop Corruption Together.” Also present were Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, Supamas Isarabhakdi; Bangkok Governor, Chatchart Sittipunt; Chairman of the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Suchart Trakulkesemsuk; Chairman of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), Amnat Puangchomphu; Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Organization (Thailand), Mana Nimitmongkol; representatives from the NACC, PACC, the Anti-Corruption Organization (Thailand), partner networks, representatives from international organizations, relevant officials, government agencies, the private sector, and the public.
Mr. Siripong Angkasakulkiat, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, revealed that the Prime Minister stated that the United Nations has declared December 9th of each year as International Anti-Corruption Day. This is a day for the global community to demonstrate their solidarity in eliminating corruption in all its forms, because corruption is a problem that undermines trust, destroys development opportunities, and diminishes the quality of life for citizens.
The Prime Minister further stated that Thailand is facing transparency challenges that affect public trust and investor confidence. Key indicators such as the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2024 show Denmark with a score of 90, ranking first in the world, Singapore with 84 points, ranking third globally and first in the Asia-Pacific region.
Thailand scored 34 points, ranking 107th in the world, reflecting the significant gaps that need urgent attention. This government will not only ‘resolve’ these issues but will also ‘raise’ the country’s transparency standards in a tangible way. We must strive fully not just to improve our CPI ranking on the global stage, but to prove that Thailand can create a transparent, accountable government system based on true good governance. This will enable Thailand to develop and progress in political, economic, and social dimensions, becoming strong and stable under the rule of law, with a system of good governance and transparency, thereby building confidence among both Thais and foreigners.
And in order to achieve this goal, I would like to present the following key policies:
1. Anti-corruption systems must be strengthened. Every agency must establish proactive anti-corruption measures. Large-scale projects must undergo risk assessments. A rigorous internal audit system must be created-not just a formality, but one that yields tangible results.
2. We request the use of digital technology to enhance the efficiency of government services. This includes reducing unnecessary procedures for public services, increasing e-services and one-stop services, and utilizing online platforms to support efforts against corruption and misconduct. Transparency must be fostered, discretionary power reduced, and factors that allow for interference eliminated. Furthermore, government information must be made publicly accessible and verifiable at every stage.
3. There must be strict, transparent, and equitable enforcement of the law. Anyone who commits corruption must be held accountable. Anyone who provides advantages to others must be investigated. There will be no exceptions or privileges, regardless of position or affiliation. As for those who are honest, the government will provide full protection and support.
4. Strengthen a culture of honesty and integrity in Thai society. Instill a sense of ethics and transparency starting in educational institutions and government agencies, ensuring everyone is honest and ethical. Promote the participation of citizens, civil society, and the media in monitoring and reporting corruption, and provide strong protection for whistleblowers, so that those who do the right thing have a secure future.
The Prime Minister emphasized that preventing and suppressing corruption requires cooperation from all parties. He expressed confidence that various agencies, including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, security forces, government agencies, the private sector, and civil society, are working together effectively to prevent, suppress, and reduce the risk of corruption.
All agencies are urged to aim for an improvement in the Corruption Perception Index (CPI) by developing action plans that contribute to increased CPI scores. The government will regularly and consistently monitor and evaluate the progress. The goal is for a transparent, trustworthy Thailand with a secure future for our children.
The Prime Minister thanked all sectors for their cooperation in protecting national interests and for their dedication to combating corruption in Thailand. He stated that today is a crucial moment to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to fighting corruption, raising public awareness and asserting that Thais will no longer tolerate or remain indifferent to corruption.
The Prime Minister concluded by inviting everyone to declare their commitment to fighting corruption. Anutin Charnvirakul pledged to conduct himself with honesty and integrity, refrain from corruption, uphold justice, and prioritize the public interest over personal gain, in line with the principles of the nation, religion, and monarchy.