Azerbaijan Government Unveils National Strategy to Combat Corruption
USAID, the Anti-Corruption Commission of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the US Embassy, the US Department of Justice, the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Council of Europe, and the NGO Anti-Corruption Network launched a two-day joint International Conference on the National Strategy of the Republic of Azerbaijan for Increasing Transparency and Combating Corruption in Baku in April 2007.
In a groundbreaking show of public participation, the Anti Corruption Commission’s Working Group of the Government of Azerbaijan (GOAJ) shared their draft national strategy on combating corruption with local civil society representations, as well as international experts from the donor community.
 |
| Scott Taylor, USAID Country Coordinator for Azerbaijan and Kevin Feldis, US Embassy Legal Advisor give an interview to the local TV channels and
news agencies and share their impression on the status of the conference |
The conference provided an opportunity for discussion and commentary on Azerbaijan’s new draft National Strategy on Increasing Transparency and Combating Corruption with the goal of making recommendations for its improvement. Participants of the conference had an opportunity to benefit from various presentations on anti-corruption activities in Azerbaijan. A lively exchange of ideas and experiences significantly contributed to the improvement of the National Strategy for for Increasing Transparency and Combating Corruption.
At the conference, the US Government and its European counterparts for the first time presented a strong, unified voice to the GOAJ regarding its recently drafted approach to combating corruption. The recommendations from the international experts overwhelming addressed the need for re-designing their action plan and modifying the national strategy. In support of this, both the US Government and the Council of Europe offered continued assistance.
“It is my view that at the end of the day, investing in people with professionalism and integrity is the key to your future success. So as you consider how to invest your time and resources in this important cross-cutting initiative, and how to link-it up with other important initiatives, that you will make institution-building your highest priority. Of course, this is not to say that there are not other important reforms that should be integrated into a larger action plan, such as regulatory streamlining or accession to the EU and the WTO. The Embassy, USAID and the Council of Europe have forged a strong partnership in Azerbaijan and the region towards the common goal of supporting these efforts. USAID and the US Government stand ready to support you in this undertaking every step of the way,” said Scott Taylor, USAID Country Coordinator for Azerbaijan during his speech at the event.
Back to Top ^ |
