Basel, Switzerland | Collective Action Conference

I had the opportunity to participate in the 4th International Conference on Collective Action, held at the Basel Institute on Governance between June and July 2022, which brought together a diverse group of experts, academics, and professionals committed to combating corruption and promoting integrity on a global scale. Crucial topics related to collective action, transparency, gender, and strategies to strengthen the fight against corruption were discussed during the event.

Erosion of Social Cohesion and the Fight Against Corruption

The erosion of social cohesion is a worrying phenomenon affecting societies worldwide. The lack of integrity, systemic corruption, and censorship undermine trust in institutions and damage the social fabric. Collective action plays a crucial role in restoring this trust, shedding light on the darkest corners of public and private life. It is essential to recognize that corruption is not just an individual problem but also a collective challenge that requires coordinated efforts.

The Role of Whistleblowers in the Private Sector

In the private sector, whistleblowers are often the most loyal and courageous employees. These individuals firmly believe in their principles and a code of ethical conduct. They are the guardians of organizational integrity, risking their careers and sometimes their lives to expose wrongdoing. Protecting and encouraging whistleblowers is essential to promoting transparency and combating corruption.

Shared Responsibility in the Aviation Sector

Safety in the aviation sector is an absolute imperative. The solid shared responsibility of all parties involved is key to maintaining high safety standards. When all actors, from pilots to mechanics and air traffic controllers, take responsibility for their actions, public trust is strengthened, and risks are minimized. Safety is not an option; it is a collective obligation.

Reputational Benefits for Companies in Joining Integrity Networks

Companies that actively join integrity networks reap significant reputational benefits. These networks provide a space to share best practices, exchange information, and collaborate on preventing corruption. Communicating these benefits to both companies and civil society is essential to encourage active participation.

Challenges and Opportunities in Beneficial Ownership Transparency

We are living in a new moment regarding beneficial ownership transparency. The search for a unified platform to bring together solutions to prevent corruption is a bold strategy. We must go beyond mere improvement and aim for zero corruption. This requires the collaboration of governments, businesses, and civil society to identify and eliminate the veils that hide the true owners of assets.

Gender Perspective and Corruption

In the session dedicated to gender perspective and corruption, we highlighted:

→ In 1998, replacing all municipal guards with women in Lima, Peru, significantly reduced corruption. Deep relationships between guards and public life were fundamental.

→ The CS Gender 3000 highlights the presence of women in senior management positions as a positive factor.

→ Public procurement systems can promote gender equality by disqualifying companies and individuals involved in gender violence.

→ "Sextortion" is an urgent issue to be addressed in integrity and anti-corruption projects.

→ The need to create safe spaces for discussions about gender harassment and assault.

→ Concrete examples, such as ensuring gender parity in the Chilean Constitutional Assembly and formalizing businesses to empower women.

Conclusion

Collective action illuminates the paths against corruption. However, it is essential that this action be accompanied by real and lasting changes. Let us work together to achieve the goal of zero corruption and build a more integral and just future for all.