Corruption erodes democratic governance, undermines trust in government, and hinders development, which is why the Department of State promotes integrity, transparency, and accountability as foreign policy priorities and core national security interests. Since the UN Convention Against Corruption’s (UNCAC) adoption and U.S. ratification, the United States has been a leader in implementing international anti-corruption commitments.

The United States launched the Anti-Corruption Champions Award in 2021 to recognize individuals who have taken remarkable steps to counter corruption, and to demonstrate U.S. solidarity with these heroic partners. Today, on International Anti-Corruption Day, we recognize 10 Anti-Corruption Champions who have led or advocated for reforms and investigations that are bringing a more just and transparent world for their fellow citizens. We commend all those who fight for accountability, the rule of law, transparency, and press freedom. This year’s honorees are Jorge Mora Cortes of Colombia, Matrika Dahal of Nepal, Altin Dumani of Albania, Srbuhi Galyan of Armenia, Carl Irani of Lebanon, Marr Nyang of The Gambia, Javier Enrique Caraballo Salazar of Panama, Didar Smagulov of Kazakhstan, Jimmy Spire Ssentongo of Uganda, and Sevinj Vagifgizi of Azerbaijan.

We are honored to work alongside champions like these to defeat corruption. We will continue working with partners to fulfill the vision of UNCAC and other international anti-corruption and good governance frameworks.