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Monday, December 22, 2025 | Daily Newspaper published by GPPC Doha, Qatar.

Tag Results for "ACTA" (9 articles)

Gulf Times
Qatar

ACTA President underlines role of Arabic language in preserving cultural identity

His Excellency President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA), Hamad bin Nasser Al Misnad affirmed that the Arabic language constitutes a fundamental pillar in promoting the values of integrity and transparency and safeguarding cultural identity, adding that ethical values are inseparable from language and culture.In a speech delivered during the celebration of World Arabic Language Day — held in conjunction with the State of Qatar’s hosting of the eleventh session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, His Excellency stated: "The Arabic language is not merely a means of communication; it is a vessel of culture, a repository of values, and a tool for enhancing societal awareness." He explained that "the precision of meaning and the elevated structures embodied in the Arabic language contribute to reinforcing the principles of truthfulness, trustworthiness, and accountability, and to protecting words from distortion and deviation, thereby supporting efforts to build more upright and transparent societies."He noted that the coincidence of World Arabic Language Day with Qatar National Day carries profound symbolism, underscoring the status of the language as a bridge for dialogue, a platform for culture, and a means of upholding human dignity. He said: "The concurrence of World Arabic Language Day with the National Day of the State of Qatar embodies deep symbolism that affirms the language’s role as a bridge for dialogue, a forum for culture, and an instrument for elevating human being and preserving dignity, as well as for renewing national and international commitment to combating corruption."In concluding his remarks, HE Al Misnad commended the efforts of the entities organizing the event, stressing the importance of continuing to strengthen the presence of the Arabic language across various fields, in a manner that contributes to consolidating ethical values and building sustainable societal awareness.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Anti-corruption agencies need to coordinate efforts to fight graft: ACTA President

His Excellency the President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA), and President of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption Hamad bin Nasser al-Misnad emphasised that anti-corruption agencies cannot confront the phenomenon of transnational corruption in isolation from one another, but rather need practical, fast and secure platforms for exchanging information, coordinating efforts and building mutual trust.In remarks during the opening session of the meeting of Global Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Operations Network (GlobE Network), held on the sidelines of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, His Excellency said corruption has become a transnational phenomenon in recent years, and its practitioners exploit legal and administrative loopholes and complexities, as well as weak international cooperation, to evade accountability.His Excellency said this is where the added value of the GLoBE Network comes in, as it is a bridge that connects the competent authorities in the States Parties, and provides digital tools and direct communication channels to support investigations and enhance prevention.He noted that the GLoBE Network meeting, held on the sidelines of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, is dedicated to promoting practical cooperation between law enforcement agencies in the field of combating corruption, and leveraging the constructive opportunities for communication and the exchange of information and experiences that this network provides.He indicated that the participants' keenness to attend the GLoBE Network sessions reflects a collective commitment to activating cooperation on the ground and turning texts into practical tools in the fight against corruption.He pointed out that the programme of events for GLoBE Network Day focuses on clear practical paths from transforming data into a strategic vision to moving from hidden data to real shared ownership data, passing through special sessions using information technology and regional frameworks, and working together for change and anticipating the future of the GLoBE Network.His Excellency noted that these titles represent an integrated path that begins with collecting and analysing information, then exchanging it and translating it into joint work that achieves tangible results.He said that focusing on proactive data and early indicators of corruption risks represents a qualitative shift in the way we look at combating corruption, because it is no longer acceptable to wait for a crime to occur and then act. Rather, what is required is that we use what is available to us in terms of databases, records and cross-border information to detect patterns of suspicious behavior before they turn into complex and cross-border issues.His Excellency added that here, the GLoBE Network and its tools can provide a platform that helps countries connect these points and transform disparate data into a shared strategic vision.His Excellency also added that the use of information and communication technology is a key focus of the meeting, whether through the digital platform of the GLoBE Network or through the regional initiatives that will be presented during the sessions.His Excellency stressed that secure digital systems, instant communication tools, and the ability to share documents and requests in real time can shorten months of traditional paper correspondence and make a real difference in the speed and effectiveness of investigations.Success in this area also requires, at the same time, investment in building national capacities and developing legislative and regulatory frameworks that ensure data protection and respect for national sovereignty while maintaining the smooth and effective flow of cooperation.In this context, the ACTA views with great interest the role played by the GLoBE Network in supporting cooperation between the competent authorities and attaches particular importance to building partnerships with international and regional networks and mechanisms that share the same goal, which is to dry up the sources of corruption, protect public funds, and enhance the confidence of societies in their institutions.HE the ACTA president said that working together for change summarises the essence of their message. Real change is not achieved merely by setting policies, legislation and systems, but also requires clear mechanisms for follow-up and evaluation, readiness to share successful experiences, and to confront challenges and work to address them collectively.His Excellency expressed hope that the discussions would contribute to developing ideas and initiatives to enhance the use of the GLoBE Network, with practical work by anti-corruption bodies, and make it an essential tool in any bilateral or multilateral cooperation.His Excellency hoped that the event would be an additional step toward consolidating the GLoBE network as a leading global platform for cooperation in combating corruption. He also affirmed the readiness of the ACTA to continue working with its partners in the United Nations and the member states of the network to expand its use and enhance its impact in uncovering corruption cases, tracking its proceeds, and recovering them.President of GLoBE Network Dr Nasser Abaalkhail noted that the opening session focused on the importance of effective and timely information exchange. He pointed out that corruption issues are transnational in nature and emphasising that cooperation among various anti-corruption agencies is essential.He said that cooperation among various anti-corruption agencies is crucial, and sharing information enables the network to obtain essential information in a timely and effective manner.During the opening session of GLoBE Network Day, participants discussed the importance of information exchange between anti-corruption agencies, how GLoBE Network tools contribute to supporting practitioners in their daily work, and addressed their experiences in the field of anti-corruption. 

Gulf Times
Qatar

ACTA chairman holds series of meetings

His Excellency the Chairman of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) Hamad bin Nasser al-Misnad, who is also the president of the eleventh session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UN Convention against Corruption (COSP11), held a series of meetings with a number of officials from anti-corruption authorities of several countries participating in COSP11, hosted by Doha from December 15 to 19.**media[394646]**He met with a US delegation headed by Deputy Assistant Secretary at the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Maggie Nardi; a delegation from Egypt headed by Chairman of the Egyptian Money Laundering Unit, Counselor Ahmed Saeed Khalil; and a delegation from Iraq headed by HE the Commissioner of the Federal Commission of Integrity (FCoI) Mohammed Ali al-Lami.**media[394647]**HE Hamad bin Nasser al-Misnad also met with Azerbaijan Prosecutor General Kamran Aliyev; a delegation from Kazakhstan headed by the deputy director of the Anti-Corruption Service of the National Security Committee, Daniyar Akzhanov; and a delegation from Djibouti headed by chairperson of the Independent National Commission for Preventing and Combating Corruption (CNIPLC) Badria Zakaria Cheikh.**media[394648]**His Excellency further held a meeting with a delegation from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, as well as a meeting with a delegation from Burkina Faso.The meetings discussed ways to enhance cooperation and went over a host of issues related to combating corruption, promoting integrity and transparency, along with strengthening cooperation in these fields. 

Gulf Times
Qatar

Conference of States Parties to UNCAC 'a fundamental platform for engagement, sharing expertise'

His Excellency Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) president Hamad bin Nasser al-Misnad, who is also the president of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), has affirmed that the hosting of the session by Qatar renews the collective commitment to combating corruption and exploring avenues for bolstering integrity and transparency, in addition to broadening international co-operation horizons in this critical field.Addressing the opening session of this conference, al-Misnad stressed that this high-profile event positions itself as a core platform for engagement and sharing expertise, as well as galvanising anti-corruption efforts on the global stage.HE Al-Misnad applauded the accession of Saint Kitts and Nevis and San Marino to the UNCAC in 2024 and 2025, which raised the total number of States Parties to 192, and urged additional countries to accede to the Convention.The previous sessions of this conference have, he noted, literally contributed to concrete achievements that deepened the culture of transparency and helped share best practices.HE Al-Misnad further elaborated that the key recommendations from these previous sessions have been related to the prevention and criminalisation of actions related to corruption, asset restoration, and facilitating shared legal assistance.These breakthroughs, the ACTA chief stressed, underline a crucial fact: combating corruption cannot yield merit unless there is high political commitment in place, along with effective international co-operation and the concerted efforts of a variety of sectors.He further emphasised the importance of adhering to the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, foremost among them respect for state sovereignty, equality of rights, and non-meddling in internal affairs.HE Al-Misnad said that the principles align with the provisions of Article 1 of the UNCAC, which explicitly calls for strengthening measures to prevent and combat corruption, promoting international co-operation and technical assistance, and consolidating integrity, accountability, and true public administration.He stressed that these objectives will be prioritised on the conference agenda, aiming to outline the next phase of the UNCAC's orientation and future.The ACTA chef said that the conference is being held at a critical stage in the fight against corruption, amid increasingly formidable challenges driven by technological advances, the digital space, and cross-border financial instruments.This situation, he said, imposes a shared responsibility to reassess priorities, update joint working mechanisms, and strengthen institutional capacities.HE Al-Misnad added that Qatar's presiding over this session stems from a clear-eyed understanding that combating corruption is not merely a legal or procedural practice, but rather a developmental and ethical pathway that requires collaboration among governments, the private sector, civil society, academic institutions, and young segments, which are much counted upon, the president stressed.The opening session saw Qatar assuming the chairmanship, during which HE al-Misnad was elected president of the 11th session by endorsement, succeeding Richard Nephew of the US.During the session, the members of the bureau for the current session of the conference were also elected by acclamation, to assume the positions of vice-presidents of the current session.They are: Naimi Aziz, Permanent Representative of Tanzania to the UN Office in ViennaRovshan Sadegbayli, Permanent Representative of Azerbaijan to the UN Office in ViennaCesar Augusto, Alternate Representative of Brazil to the UN Office in Vienna.Meanwhile, Jose Maria Vastiada, Counsellor of the Permanent Mission of Spain to the UN Office in Vienna, was elected as Rapporteur.The proposed agenda was also presented, approved, and formally adopted.The opening session was punctuated by a screening of a video that showcased Qatar's efforts in anti-corruption areas, alongside its enduring commitment to backing global efforts thereon, through strengthening multilateral action and laying the groundwork for a global environment grounded on values of justice, integrity, and equality.This is in addition to Qatar's launching of the National Strategy to Enhance Integrity, Transparency, and Prevent Corruption for the years 2025-2030, in a move that underscores its commitment to combating corruption and aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030.  

Officials at the press conference.
Qatar

Official highlights Qatar's commitment to promote integrity

The hosting of the 11th Conference of the State Parties to the United Nations Convention against Corruption (COSP11) reflects Qatar’s commitment to promoting integrity, transparency and good governance, said Abdulwahab Saleh I S al-Kuwari, the director of public relations and communications at the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) Monday.He was addressing a press conference along with Shervin Majlessi, the chief of the Implementation Section in the Corruption and Economic Crime Branch of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime( UNODC) at the COSP11 taking place at the Sheraton Doha.With them were Amal Alkuwari from the ACTA and Anne Thomas of the United Nations Information Service in Vienna.Al-Kuwari noted that the conference serves as the primary decision-making body responsible for overseeing the implementation of United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC), which counts 192 states parties, aiming to enhance international co-operation in the prevention and suppression of corruption.“The current session unites participants from governments, international and regional organisations, anti-corruption experts, private sector representatives, civil society, and youth,” he said.“The UNCAC is the only legally binding global instrument in the field, structured around five core pillars: preventative measures, criminalisation and law enforcement, international co-operation, asset recovery, and technical assistance,” al-Kuwari explained. “It also addresses multiple forms of corruption, including bribery, abuse of power, misuse of function, and corruption in the private sector.”The official noted that the conference will weigh in on progress in implementing the Convention, as well as national and global challenges in combating corruption.Meanwhile, Majlessi said that no country can confront corruption and financial crime alone.“We need a response as diverse as the challenge confronting us,” he said. “The urgency of our discussion here is clear: In 2024, one in five people worldwide who interacted with public officials was asked to pay a bribe.”According to him, corruption and economic crime deprive societies of critical resources needed for education, healthcare, and infrastructure and development in general.“Evidence shows that reducing corruption worldwide could increase tax revenue by around $1tn, according to the International Monetary Fund, equivalent to 1.25% of global GDP, and boost economic growth,” Majlessi said.“The conference is the highest political forum under the UNCAC,” he continued. “The conference ensures that the Convention is not merely a set of principles, but a living instrument that drives real change.”Majlessi also noted that at global level, the Convention has strengthened international co-operation and asset recovery that have led to approximately $17bn in corruption-related assets being frozen, confiscated, or returned.“This is a critical resource that can be redirected towards servicing the people who desperately need it,” he added.“At the same time, we must acknowledge that challenges remain,” Majlessi stressed. “Closing these gaps is essential if the international community is to keep pace with increasingly complex and transnational corruption and economic climate threats.”“Meeting these challenges requires that our anti-corruption frameworks evolve alongside the technologies that are reshaping economies, public administration, and criminal activity,” the official said.“Corruption is no longer confined to envelopes of cash or isolated avenues of authority,” Majlessi stated. “It increasingly operates through complex financial structures, digital platforms, and transnational networks.” 

Gulf Times
Qatar

Ministry of Education inaugurates awareness exhibition accompanying UNCAC Conference of States Parties

The Ministry of Education and Higher Education, in cooperation with the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA), inaugrated the awareness and educational exhibition accompanying the Conference of the States Parties (CoSP) to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC). The inaugration was attended by Assistant Undersecretary for Educational Affairs at the Ministry Maha Zayed Qaqaa Al Ruwaili and Assistant Undersecretary for Private Education Affairs Omar Abdulaziz Al Naama. The exhibition aims to introduce students to the importance of combating corruption, promoting a culture of integrity, and highlighting the State of Qatar's efforts in supporting international initiatives in this field. It also seeks to encourage students to adopt positive behaviors that promote integrity in their school and community environments. Al Ruwaili confirmed that the exhibition will receive student visits from Nov. 16-20 at the Ministry's headquarters, with the aim of consolidating the values ​​of integrity and transparency among students, and supporting educational and awareness efforts that contribute to building a generation aware of issues of combating corruption and its impact on society and development. For his part, Director of the Planning, Quality and Innovation Department at ACTA Eid Al Hajri confirmed that organizing the exhibition comes in conjunction with Doha's hosting of the 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption. He noted that the conference, which Doha will host from Dec. 15-19, will bring together representatives from 192 member states, as well as UN bodies, regional organizations, civil society institutions, research centers, and private sector representatives. Al Hajri explained that hosting the conference, which is jointly organized by ACTA and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, is an international testament to the confidence in the State of Qatar's efforts to promote transparency and combat corruption. It also highlights the country's position as a center for international dialogue and development initiatives. He noted that this is not the first time Qatar has hostedthe conference, as it previously hosted the third session in 2009, which was the first session held in the Middle East region. He added that the conference is the most important global gathering held every two years for States Parties to the Convention, aimed at discussing global corruption-related challenges, reviewing efforts undertaken, and proposing practical solutions to enhance transparency and integrity.

HE President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, Hamad bin Nasser al- Misnad
Qatar

ACTA launches strategy to promote integrity and prevent corruption

Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) on Wednesday launched the National Strategy to Promote Integrity, Transparency, and Prevent Corruption (2025-2030).The strategy was unveiled during a ceremony attended by senior officials and dignitaries. It aims to strengthen anti-corruption frameworks and aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030).Speaking at the event, HE President of the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority, Hamad bin Nasser al- Misnad,​​ described the new strategy as an advanced strategic step. He noted that it is a practical extension of the state's approach to promoting efficiency and accountability.The strategy is fully consistent with the Third National Development Strategy, specifically the 'Distinguished Government Institutions' pillar, HE al-Misnad said. This pillar, he explained, emphasizes raising the efficiency of the government sector, ensuring quality services, and building institutions capable of effectively responding to sustainable development challenges.Al-Misnad clarified that the National Strategy to Promote Integrity will help activate this pillar by establishing principles of transparency and accountability, linking institutional performance to standards of integrity, and promoting a culture of corruption prevention as a foundation for government excellence, adding that this will ultimately support the state's efforts to build an efficient administrative apparatus capable of supporting the national economy and serving the community with competence and transparency.He stressed that the strategy stems from the insightful vision of the wise leadership and a firm belief that integrity is not an administrative luxury, but a national necessity, a developmental requirement, and a moral basis that strengthens the trust of citizens and residents in state institutions and reinforces a culture of responsible work.He stated that this framework completes continuous national efforts in the field of anti-corruption, noting that in recent years, the state has developed an effective legislative and institutional system, strengthened the role of supervisory bodies, and adopted administrative practices that enshrine transparency and accountability in government work.He pointed out that the strategy was developed using a precise scientific methodology and according to international best practices. It covers key sectors, including the public sector, the private sector, the legislative framework, and society, with the goal of achieving realistic, measurable results that will improve the quality of public services, raise the efficiency of institutional performance, and strengthen the local and international community's trust in Qatar's work and investment environment.Al-Misnad emphasized that the project could not have materialized without the sincere political will, which was repeatedly expressed by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, who stressed that public office is a responsibility, not merely an entitlement, and that combating corruption requires strict standards, in addition to linking promotion and wages with productivity and merit.The ACTA president outlined that the strategy prioritizes a comprehensive national partnership, giving great importance to the integration of roles among state institutions, the legislative authority, supervisory bodies, the private sector, and civil society. This approach is based on the conviction that anti-corruption is a collective responsibility that requires awareness and institutional and ethical practice on the ground, not just decisions.He stated that the strategy is built upon five principal pillars: Enhancing Integrity in the Public Sector through good governance; Raising the Level of Transparency in the Private Sector; Developing the Legislative Framework that supports prevention and accountability; Promoting Community Awareness of the culture of integrity; Entrenching Governance, Transparency, and Corruption Prevention Practices at the level of public policies.He added that these pillars integrate to form a comprehensive national framework that boosts institutional effectiveness, establishes the principles of justice and equal opportunity, and contributes to building a resilient national environment that is resistant to corruption risks and compliant with international standards and national development priorities.HE al-Misnad​​ noted that the strategy takes contemporary challenges into account, including economic openness, digital transformation, the necessity of enhancing cybersecurity, and confronting transnational economic crimes, stressing that this focus will boost the state's readiness to keep pace with global developments and solidify Qatar's position in international transparency indices by building a developmental model based on justice, equality, and equal opportunity.The launch event included a documentary film about the strategy's pillars, as well as panel discussions highlighting its key components and best national and international practices in the field.The strategy represents a pivotal national stage in promoting integrity and establishing the principles of transparency and corruption prevention, thereby contributing to sustainable development and reinforcing Qatar's regional and international standing.

Gulf Times
Qatar

ACTA marks international day for universal Access to Information

The Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) organized an event on Sunday to mark the International Day for Universal Access to Information, with the participation of representatives of government entities and experts in the field. Held under the theme "Right of Access to Information," the event highlighted the importance of access to information as a pillar of transparency and accountability, and reviewed leading national practices in implementing related legislation. The event also honored participating entities, underscoring the importance of institutional cooperation in promoting a culture of transparency and strengthening accountability. ACTA stressed that organizing this event falls within its mandate to develop national policies in the field, provide technical and advisory support to government entities, and conduct workshops and awareness programs that contribute to fostering a culture of transparency and enhancing public confidence in state institutions. The Authority noted that these efforts are part of the implementation of the National Strategy to Promote Transparency and Accountability, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.

Gulf Times
Qatar

Regional Workshop on implementation of law on regulating right to access information concludes in Doha

The regional workshop on the implementation of the law on regulating the right to access information concluded in Doha.It was organized by the Administrative Control and Transparency Authority (ACTA) in the State of Qatar, in cooperation with the Anti-Corruption Commission in the State of Palestine, which chaired the Fifth Session of the Conference of the States Parties to the Arab Convention Against Corruption, with support from the General Secretariat of the League of Arab States.The three-day workshop brought together representatives from 15 Arab countries.The workshop concluded with a number of practical recommendations and proposals for joint Arab cooperation projects, aimed at enhancing the implementation of the law and supporting the development of a more integrated Arab framework in the areas of transparency and accountability.In her opening remarks, Director of the Control and Development Department of ACTA Amal Al Kuwari noted that organizing this event came in response to a recommendation from the seventh meeting of the Governmental Experts Committee of States Parties to the Arab Convention Against Corruption. She emphasized that it represents the result of fruitful cooperation between Qatar, Palestine, and the Arab League.Al Kuwari explained that the right to access information is no longer merely an administrative procedure, but a fundamental pillar of integrity and good governance, and an effective tool for building trust in public institutions and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She noted that Qatar recognized the importance of this right early on, issuing Law No. (9) of 2022 regulating the right to access information, alongside awareness and training programs to support its implementation.The workshop aimed to exchange legislative and executive experiences in this field, review international principles and standards, and share best practices to develop national policies and strengthen the capacities of Arab countries. The Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Center in Qatar oversaw the training sessions throughout the workshop.