Corruption and crimes that affect the environment (illegal deforestation, crimes in the fisheries and minerals sectors, wildlife and waste trafficking, among others) are deeply intertwined and are mutually reinforcing. Recognizing this link, States Parties to the UNCAC adopted Resolution 8/12. 

This Theme Day is the result of a collective effort by stakeholders from the public and private sectors, civil society, academia and international organizations. Together, they share insights, experiences, tools, and strategies that have proven effective in countering corruption. This theme day is the result of a shared belief that only through collaboration and action from all stakeholders can we achieve a sustainable future.

The theme day aims to:

• Showcase good practices and lessons learnt to disrupting corruption as it links to crimes that affect the environment;
• Promote dialogue among public and private sectors, civil society, academia and international organizations;
• Inform of the challenges identified and highlight practical tools that can be mainstreamed to strengthen global efforts toward a sustainable future.

This theme day takes place in hybrid format at the 11th Conference of the States Parties to the UN Convention Against Corruption in Doha, Qatar. Environment Day is a co-organised by a coalition of partners including the Basel Institute on Governance.

Details and online registration

• Date and time: Tuesday 16 December: 09:00–18:00 AST | 07:00–16:00 CET
• Location: Room 2, Sheraton Doha Grand Resort and Convention Hotel
• Virtual participation: Register here

Agenda and times (AST)

09:00–09:50 Session 1: Political finance transparency for a green transition

Corruption and abuse of political finance undermine climate and environmental goals. This event explores how transparent political finance and beneficial ownership can support green transitions and curb corruption. Recommendations for new UNCAC resolutions on these topics will be presented.

10:00–10:50 Session 2: Technology for integrity and environmental protection

Natural resources sustain economies and face growing threats from corruption and cross-border crime, driving climate, biodiversity, and pollution crises. This side event introduces innovative technology solutions to better prevent, detect, and address crimes that affect the environment.

11:00–12:50 Session 3: Corruption prevention in natural resource management

The session will discuss the building blocks of an effective governance framework to prevent corruption and environmental crimes and strengthen environmental and climate protection, highlighting real-life examples and the relevance of UNCAC, other global fora, and multi-stakeholder initiatives.

13:00–13:50 Session 4: High-level anti-corruption success stories for environment

This high-level session highlights achievements using anti-corruption measures to protect the planet, strengthen climate action, and manage natural resources. Participants will exchange lessons and explore strategies to scale effective approaches and accelerate impact.

14:00–15:50 Session 5: Accountability for corruption & crimes in the environment

This event will explore how stronger anti-corruption efforts under the UNCAC can help dismantle networks behind crimes affecting the environment. Speakers will share challenges, good practices, and tools to enhance enforcement, cooperation, and accountability for sustainability.

16:00–16:50 Session 6: Accountability pathways for climate action

Efficient climate finance requires exploring oversight and accountability tools. Panelists will discuss practical accountability mechanisms, challenges in prosecuting corrupt practices leading to environmental crime and monitoring climate funds, and strategies to counter corruption in this framework.

17:00–17:50 Session 7: Supranational collaboration for climate integrity

This panel will examine how international organisations, bilateral donors, and the private sector can collaborate to mitigate corruption risks in climate finance and promote transparency, accountability, and effectiveness in climate solutions. It will showcase best practices and identify emerging challenges.

Background reading

• Green Corruption programme at the Basel Institute on Governance and related publications