In a collective effort to combat corruption, the BRICS countries have taken significant strides towards addressing this global challenge. Established in 2015, the BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) has played a pivotal role in promoting mutual concerns and fostering collaboration among its member nations.
South Africa, having presided over the Working Group in 2018, introduced the development of the BRICS Asset Recovery Expert Network, marking a significant milestone in the fight against corruption.
Under the leadership of rotating presidencies, the BRICS ACWG has consistently addressed key issues including the use of civil and administrative means in battling cross-border corruption, enhancing coordination within multilateral frameworks, anti-corruption education and training, cooperation in pursuing economic offenders linked to corruption, and the initiative on Denial of Safe Haven to proceeds of corruption and crime.
Advocate Xolisile Khanyile, the Director of the Financial Intelligence Centre (FIC), leads the Working Group on behalf of South Africa, with the Department of Public Service and Administration serving as the coordinator and secretariat. The third and final meeting of 2023 took place on August 8, 2023, in Kolkata, India, held on the margins of G20 ACWG.
During the 2023 presidency, the Working Group prioritized enhancing efficiency in the recovery of stolen assets and proceeds of crime through public-private partnerships, education and training, and exploring the gendered impacts of corruption. The objectives were aligned with the broader aim of fostering strong, sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth and contributing to the achievement of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The BRICS member countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, and China, pledged their support and cooperation to the South African presidency’s agenda, demonstrating their commitment to the Working Group’s objectives.
The third meeting encompassed various discussions and reports, including a progress report on the BRICS countries’ work, the successful BRICS Anti-Corruption Workshop on the Gendered Impacts of Corruption, the BRICS Anti-Corruption Training for Practitioners, planning for the BRICS Roundtable on Gender and Corruption, country reports on the Denial of Safe Haven initiative and the BRICS ACWG’s contribution to the XV BRICS Summit eGoli Declaration. Additionally, deliberations were held on the agendas of the G20 Anti-Corruption Working Group and the G20 Ministerial Meeting.
South Africa received commendations from the BRICS countries for its successful presidency of the Working Group, with gratitude expressed for its collaborative efforts throughout the year. The Presidency’s emphasis on forging partnerships between the public and private sectors to strengthen the fight against corruption was particularly appreciated.
As the meeting concluded, the Chairperson extended gratitude to all participating countries for their commitment, engagement, and cooperation. She urged continued efforts towards international cooperation against corruption and expressed appreciation to India for hosting the Working Group’s meetings.
Furthermore, she extended well wishes to Russia and Brazil as they prepare to lead the BRICS ACWG and the G20 ACWG in 2024, respectively, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment and support.
The BRICS Anti-Corruption Working Group stands as a testament to the collective determination of its member nations to combat corruption, promote transparency, and foster sustainable development. By strengthening international cooperation and sharing best practices, the Working Group continues to make significant strides in the global fight against corruption.
