OSCE Centre supports discussion in Kyrgyzstan on anti-corruption methods

BISHKEK, 5 June 2008 - Effective ways of fighting corruption is the focus of an international conference, supported by the OSCE Centre, that ends in Bishkek tomorrow.

In a letter to participants, Kyrgyz President Kurmanbek Bakiev said it was important to pass amendments to the criminal and criminal-procedural legislation that would offer a more clear definition of corrupt practices and toughen responsibility for breach of law. "The law on combating corruption has to be improved as well," he added. 

The two-day event is attended by Prime Minister Igor Chudinov, other government representatives, members of parliament, the international donor community, representatives of anti-corruption agencies of Malaysia, Latvia, and Pakistan, and local and international experts.

"Preventive measures to fight corruption can only work if a strong leadership and a political will are in place," said Ambassador Andrew Tesoriere, the Head of the OSCE Centre.

Participants will discuss the implementation of the Kyrgyz strategy to combat corruption, different anti-corruption measures, and the interaction of State structures and the civil society.

The conference is supported under a good governance initiative by the OSCE Centre in partnership with the German Development Agency (GTZ), the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and the Shanghai Co-operation Organization.