The statement, which includes eight steps that form a basis for debate around action to be taken, was issued on the first day of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting that kicked off in Malta on Friday. It outlines how the Commonwealth can work to become a leader in global anti-corruption efforts.
Cobus de Swardt, Transparency International’s managing director, said: “We are delighted the Commonwealth – which represents nearly a third of the world’s population – is taking the fight against corruption so seriously and treating it as a priority.
“Corruption has proven to be a major destructive force across the Commonwealth, ruining millions of lives and stunting development and growth.”
He said the Commonwealth is in a “unique position” to lead the charge against corruption. It includes both countries where vast amounts of public money are stolen as well as the major financial centres that can be used to launder corrupt wealth.
Ahead of an anti-corruption summit, which will be hosted by the UK next summer, the statement outlines eight steps upon which a consensus for action can be built.
These include consideration of a formal Commonwealth-wide scheme for cooperation and mutual legal assistance, compliance with G20 standards of beneficial ownership and transparency, and improved information-sharing frameworks.
