Collective Action to Fight Corruption

The prevailing world economic crisis will only increase the level of scrutiny over the use of public funds. This chapter explores how the development community is making increased efforts to tackle corruption, whilst maintaining its commitment to the aid effectiveness agenda. The chapter draws on knowledge and lessons from the field, and research by the Development Assistance Committee’s Network on Governance to show how donors are increasingly working together in partner countries to understand and deal with corruption. Donor spending on a variety of initiatives aimed at strengthening governance is steadily increasing. In addition, international agreements like the UN Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) are helping to support coherent donor approaches. The chapter concludes by listing some further actions needed in today’s crisis environment to respond better to public concerns about corruption in the overall delivery of international aid.