This Anti-Corruption Helpdesk brief was produced in response to a query from the European Commission. The Anti-Corruption Helpdesk is operated by Transparency International and funded by the European Union.
Query
Can you provide an overview of corruption and anti-corruption efforts in Afghanistan, focusing particularly on public financial management?
CONTENT
1. Overview of corruption in Afghanistan
2. Governance structure and anti-corruption efforts in Afghanistan
3. References
SUMMARY
Afghanistan faces major governance and corruption challenges that threaten the country’s state-building process, undermining the government’s legitimacy, stability, and rule of law. The problem of corruption in the country is exacerbated by the prevalence of illicit drug activities, a weak public administration and the large amounts of international aid flowing into the country. Corruption permeates most government sectors and institutions. To guarantee that money is well spent and services are delivered effectively, it is crucial that Afghanistan’s public financial management system functions in an accountable and transparent manner. With the support of the international community, the government of Afghanistan has made major progress with regards to budget planning and execution, public procurement processes, and revenue collection and management. However, in spite of these improvements, Afghanistan still lacks the capacity to continue progressing in these areas without external (technical and financial) support.
Authors
Maíra Martini, Transparency International, [email protected]
Reviewers
Marie Chêne, Transparency International; Srirak Plipat, Transparency International
Date
20/10/2013
