On July 3rd 2015, the Central Commission for Internal Affairs (CCIA) hosted a dialogue called “Enhancing Mechanisms in Handling Corruption Crimes and in Law Enforcement: International Experience and Lessons Learnt for Viet Nam,” in partnership with the UNDP. Participants were welcomed by Mr. Nguyen Doan Khanh (Member of the Central Party Committee, Deputy Director of CCIA), Mr Li Ming-Chak ( Former Deputy Commissioner of Hong Kong Independent Commission for Anti-Corruption), and Mr. Bakhodir Burkhanov (Deputy Country Director, UNDP Viet Nam). This dialogue was the first in a series of three policy discussions between CCIA and UNDP in 2015.
Three key points from UNDP’s perspective were described by the Deputy Country Director in UNDP Viet Nam, Bakhodir Burkhanov:
“Firstly, the cleanest countries in the world are tough on corruption, while at the same time respectful of human rights and fundamental freedoms. These must not be competing priorities, but rather mutually reinforcing ones. Getting this right is at the very heart of the Rule of Law.
Secondly, instituting and actively promoting a zero tolerance policy is in itself a strong deterrent. Countries that are successful in curbing corruption send a strong message to all public and private sector actors that corruption is a high-risk crime. Enforcement is obviously critical; all pursuable complaints should be dealt with.
Lastly, community support is essential to success. It is as important as effective institutions and leadership. Anti-corruption is everyone’s business and can no longer be seen as monopoly of the Government. Citizens and communities have a part to play in fostering a culture of integrity, transparency and accountability.”
