International Anti-Corruption Day or what we can do to change our lives?

Today is the International Anti-Corruption Day. For many of us, this is not just a day because each of us wants to live in democratic and developed countries.

On this day, I reflected on my time at the National Agency on Corruption Prevention between 2023 and 2024, and the efforts of my colleagues in the fight against corruption in Ukraine and globally.

I was prompted to write this post after thinking about the value of motivational quotes. I will summarise the motivation letter I submitted in 2023 when I was running for the position of Head of the National Agency on Corruption Prevention.

“Corruption can erode any system, regardless of the philosophy or ideology of the founding fathers, the adequacy of the government, or the geographical location.” Lee Kuan Yew

My motivation to work in the field of corruption prevention is derived from several factors. In my experience, I have observed how corruption can have a detrimental impact on individuals, affecting their thoughts, emotions, and even moral compass. Corruption has had a detrimental impact on individuals, undermining human values and fostering chaos. Corruption has resulted in the loss of dreams and lives. In their pursuit of power, money, and fame, corrupt officials are undermining the democratic values that we are currently defending. In my professional capacity as a legal professional, I am committed to defending the rights, freedoms, and interests of citizens. Ensuring compliance with the law has been an integral part of my professional practice for 20 years.

By fostering a culture of integrity and transparency, we can significantly reduce corruption in Ukraine, alter citizens' perceptions of corrupt practices, and defend the democratic values that Ukraine needs to thrive.

Our anti-corruption authorities form part of the public administration system. The effective and systematic work of institutions is essential for the state to be strong and successful.

In April 2023, when I decided to take up the position of a civil servant at the National Agency, I set a goal to transfer my experience in management, to facilitate systemic decision-making at the National Agency on the European and Euro-Atlantic path. As for my vision of the future of our anti-corruption agencies, I would like to note that their activities should be in line with Ukraine's geopolitical course and national interests, as well as the challenges posed by society.

As a leader with over 15 years of experience, I believe that we must develop ethical leadership and integrity, build bridges and trust with people, facilitate dialogues, manage projects and crises, unite like-minded people, think strategically and systematically, and be responsible.

Golda Meir's words about rebuilding the country during the war and fighting corruption go to my heart and correspond to the realities of Ukraine, namely: “...And most importantly, work, work, and work, because no one will protect you, no one will feed you but yourself and your country are needed only by you and no one else. When this becomes not just words and a simple slogan, but a way of life, then you have achieved your goal...”

The primary objective for Ukraine at this time is to establish strong institutions with a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Those in public service must act in the public interest and learn to navigate challenges with resilience. Despite our best efforts, we must remember that there is always room for improvement. As Golda Meir said, "I learned a very important lesson: a person can always do a little more than what seemed to be the limit of their capabilities yesterday."

Do not give up, work, fight, and win!

#anticorruption #integrity