Statement by President of the Republic Sergio Mattarella to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day

Courtesy translation

ThePresident of theRepublic, Sergio Mattarella,released the following statement to marktheInternational Anti-Corruption Day:

«Corruption alters the life of people, jeopardizeseverybody'srights, corrodes the foundationsof society,underminesthe rule of law,anddistorts markets.

Combating this scourge - which concerns all the Continents - is a duty of Institutions and, at the same time, an ethical and civic commitment of social forces, communities, and citizens.

TheInternational Anti-Corruption Dayproclaimed by the United Nations is celebrated concomitantly withthe 20thanniversary of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption,which globalized this battle for civilization and progress, providing Countries with new legal instruments, strengthening cooperation between judicial authorities and police forces, andupholding common prevention measures.

It is an important opportunity to relaunch the value of combating crime and asserting legality.

Much can be done througheducation, culture, and civicspirit.

Lawfulness and honesty are essential conditions for an equitable and sustainable growth.

By contrast, corruption, illicit financialflows, and tax evasiondeprive all segments of society of sizable resources.

Peace, Justice, and strong Institutions are goals of the United Nations 2030 Agenda. These global goals involve the very future of the Planet and its sustainability. Everyone is called to do their share. »