4. Independence
Applying the Capacity Assessment Methodology to anti-corruption agencies
Enabling environment
The ACA’s budget should also be closely reviewed, as financial resources have the most direct impact on institutional capacity. Indeed, many ACAs have failed or declined due to a lack of resources. The establishment and operation of a successful ACA implies that the government bear substantial costs, sometimes at the expense of other items on the national budget. Strong political commitment is required in order to allocate the human and financial resources that an ACA requires. A predictable budget - or a guarantee of budgetary stability – can go a long way in ensuring ACA effectiveness. The ACA can also share the proceeds from corruption cases they have investigated and resolved.