The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) proudly hosted an engaging and insightful event dedicated to unveiling the comprehensive assessment report and detailed recommendations from the “Reinforcing Thailand’s Anti-Corruption Framework” project. This ambitious initiative forms part of the Country Programme Phase 2, a collaboration between the Government of Thailand and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Held on a significant date, 30th August 2024, at the prestigious The Okura Prestige Hotel in Bangkok, the gathering aimed to spotlight key findings while outlining strategic actions required to enhance Thailand’s anti-corruption mechanisms, aligning them with esteemed OECD standards.
The grand opening ceremony was marked by thought-provoking remarks from Pol. Gen. Watcharapol Prasarnrajkit, the esteemed President of the NACC, and Ms. Elodie Beth, the highly-regarded Senior Manager of Global Relations within the Anti-Corruption Division at OECD. They emphasized the creation and implementation of this vital project, which has been in the works since 2023, and called for a united effort across various sectors in amending legislation and instituting measures. Such collective action is aimed at elevating Thailand’s anti-corruption standards to meet OECD norms, thereby significantly bolstering the country’s preparedness for prospective OECD membership.
The event included illuminating presentations from distinguished representatives of the OECD, current member nations, and the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council. These presentations were as rich in information as they were diverse in scope, encompassing Thailand’s evolving relationship with the OECD, the elaborate roadmap charting the country’s potential OECD membership, meticulous criteria for accession to the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, and enriching experience-sharing sessions from current OECD members.
Adding depth to the discussions, a thorough and detailed presentation of the assessment report and its recommendations was provided. This report painstakingly addressed critical issues intrinsic to the fight against corruption. Topics ranged from foreign bribery offences and corporate liability to stringent law enforcement measures and the imperative non-tax deductibility of bribes. Each point highlighted the importance of concerted, multi-faceted approaches in tackling corruption effectively.
The event’s magnetism was further underscored by the robust attendance of over 150 passionate participants from the public sector, private industry, and civil society. Their collective presence not only symbolized a significant step toward informed dialogue and cooperative effort but also underscored the shared commitment to sculpting a transparent, accountable, and corruption-free Thailand.
For further insights into the NACC’s groundbreaking initiatives and access to detailed reports, visit www.nacc.go.th
This is a step in the right direction! Thailand desperately needs more robust anti-corruption measures.
I agree, but I doubt that just aligning with OECD standards will magically eliminate corruption. It’s deeply rooted in the system.
True, but having international standards can at least provide a framework to start dismantling it. Better than doing nothing!
Frameworks and reports are nice, but where’s the real action? It’s often just talk.
Why does Thailand need to conform to OECD standards? Can’t they create their own anti-corruption measures?
OECD standards provide a tried-and-tested model. Countries that have adopted them generally see improved transparency.
I see your point, but will these standards really fit Thailand’s unique issues?
Change is hard, but it’s obvious that local measures haven’t worked. Time to try something different!
It’s always about foreign organizations telling us how to run our country. When will Thailand stand on its own?
It’s not about control; it’s about fighting corruption which affects everyone. What’s wrong with some international help?
Help is fine, but I dislike the heavy reliance on foreign institutions for everything. Feels like we can’t think for ourselves.
It’s wonderful to see such a strong turnout for the event. It shows there’s significant commitment across all sectors.
I don’t know, 150 people doesn’t seem like a lot for such a critical issue.
Quality over quantity, Megan. It’s about having the right people there, not just a large crowd.
Law enforcement measures mentioned in the report are crucial. I hope they focus on punishing both the givers and receivers of bribes.
Absolutely! Accountability on all sides is necessary for any of this to have a lasting impact.
I saw nothing about protecting whistleblowers. They’ll need that if they want real change!
Excellent point, Sarah! Whistleblower protection is vital.
No matter what they do, corruption will simply find new ways to flourish.
The non-tax deductibility of bribes is an interesting point. Does anyone know if this is enforced effectively in other countries?
In some countries, yes. It depends on the regulatory mechanisms in place and the political will to enforce them.
It’s encouraging that both the public and private sectors are involved. Collaboration is the only way forward.
I hope these measures also address the smaller, day-to-day corruption that most citizens face.
Yes, that’s often overlooked. It’s not just the big scandals, but the everyday corruption that impacts lives the most.
Exactly, focusing on both big and small corruption is key!
Will these efforts make any difference with the current political climate? It seems doubtful.
Who funds these anti-corruption projects? Always curious about that.
Usually, it’s a mix of government funds and international grants. Transparency on funding sources is important too!
The exchange of experiences with other OECD members could be one of the most valuable aspects of this initiative. Learning from success and failures alike.
I feel like we need to focus more on education to tackle corruption at its root.