"Strengthening Global Integrity: The United States' Comprehensive Approach to Counter Corruption Worldwide"

Published by: Global Counter-Terrorism Institute

Date: December 11, 2023

Introduction:

In observance of International Anti-Corruption Day and coinciding with the commencement of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption, the United States has embarked on a significant initiative to reinforce global integrity. This initiative underscores a comprehensive approach to hold corrupt actors accountable across various nations, reflecting a robust commitment to promoting transparency and justice in international affairs.

Key Actions and Designations:

The U.S. Department of State, leveraging Section 7031(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2023, has designated over 30 individuals for their involvement in significant corruption or gross violations of human rights. This action renders these individuals and their immediate family members generally ineligible for entry into the United States.

Simultaneously, the Department of the Treasury, under Executive Order 13818, which enhances the Global Magnitsky Human Rights Accountability Act, has designated two individuals and 44 entities. These designations are a testament to the U.S. government's resolve in combating corruption and upholding human rights globally.

Regional Focus and Specific Cases:

1. Afghanistan: The designation of Mir Rahman Rahmani and Ajmal Rahmani, along with their family members, for their involvement in a transnational corruption scheme highlights the global reach of these efforts.

2. Bosnia and Herzegovina: The designation of Diana Kajmakovic and Osman Mehmedagic for their roles in facilitating criminal activities and corruption within the government apparatus.

3. Dominican Republic: The former Attorney General, Jean Alain Rodriguez Sanchez, is designated for misappropriating public funds, showcasing the focus on high-level corruption.

4. Haiti: The designations of former Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive, former Senators Nenel Cassy and Herve Fourcand, emphasize the commitment to addressing corruption that undermines governmental integrity.

5. Liberia: The designations of Samuel Tweah, Albert Chie, and Emmanuel Nuquay, along with the Mayor of Monrovia, Jefferson Koijee, underscore the focus on corruption in public funding and human rights abuses.

6. Republic of the Marshall Islands: The designations of Kessai Note and Mike Halferty for accepting bribes in legislative processes highlight the importance of integrity in public service.

Conclusion:

These decisive actions by the United States serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of international cooperation in the fight against corruption. They align with the principles and objectives of the Global Counter-Terrorism Institute in promoting accountability, transparency, and justice in global governance. As we continue to observe the developments in these regions, it is imperative to support and collaborate with international efforts to dismantle corrupt systems and foster a world where integrity prevails in public life.

Tags: Afghanistan, Anti-Corruption and Transparency, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bureau of African Affairs, Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs, Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs, Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Corruption, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Human Rights, Liberia, Marshall Islands, Office of the Coordinator on Global Anti-Corruption, Office of the Spokesperson, Sanctions, United Nations, Visas.

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