#16Days& Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity
The 9th of December is International Anti-Corruption Day and this year will be followed by the eleventh session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption meeting in Doha, Qatar, from the 15th-19th December 2025.
The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has described the 2025 campaign as one “Building on the campaign launched on International Anti-Corruption Day in 2024, the 2025 campaign continues to highlight the role of young guardians of integrity as advocates, raising awareness about corruption and its impact on their communities. It will feature voices of tomorrow’s integrity leaders sharing insights on the links between organized crime and corruption, the key role of AI and emerging technologies, and the connection between corruption, peace and security, demonstrating why combating corruption is essential for a fair and secure future”.
Young people can make a difference by first learning about the various forms of corruption—such as bribery, nepotism, embezzlement, and vote-buying—and actively choosing not to engage in or accept these behaviours in everyday life. Students and early-career professionals can further promote integrity by participating in or establishing clubs, campus initiatives, and community forums dedicated to discussing ethics, transparency, and the importance of upholding the rule of law.
They can also use various forms of social media to promote and build a culture of integrity
The UNODC has also shared “5 Facts why Education is Key to Combatting Corruption”
- Education teaches values of transparency, accountability and integrity from an early age.
- It equips young people with skills to challenge corruption at all levels.
- Education enables young people to promote ethical behaviour in their communities.
- It nurtures future leaders with a strong moral compass.
- Education fosters a generation committed to rejecting unethical practices and fighting corruption.
A Prayer for Integrity and Courage
Let us pray
God of justice and truth, we gather our voices and hearts, united against corruption in all its forms.
Inspire young people everywhere to seek knowledge, to stand for what is right, and to reject the temptations of bribery, nepotism, and dishonesty.
Grant us the courage to speak out, To build communities rooted in transparency, fairness, and hope.
May we work together—youth, leaders, and all people—to create a world where integrity is celebrated and justice prevails.
Guide our actions so that peace and security may flourish, and let our commitment to honesty shape a brighter, more equitable future for all. May it be so AMEN
