O.A.S. Can Assist through the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption

Starret Greene

Back in December 2016, Belize took a historic step when it signed on to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption.  While the government was lauded for taking a step in the right direction, civil society and trade union groups have been complaining about the slow-paced implementation process. Starret Greene says this is where the O.A.S. can assist through its ascension to the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption.

Starret Greene, O.A.S. Representative, Belize

“There is no doubt that Belize has put in place the requisite legislative framework to fight corruption. Where we are is the actual implementation and follow up. We need to put in place the requisite infrastructure, human resources, technical persons and then we need to create a culture against corruption. And so although the infrastructure is in place legislatively, there are still shortcomings in terms of the emphasis on getting things done, putting the practical things in place to ensure corruption is fought all the way. Under the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption, which Belize has signed, that has codified in its law, we have what is called a follow up mechanism. And this mechanism allows for other countries to come to Belize and for Belize to report on what it is doing under the Inter-American Convention Against Corruption to fight corruption. And where there are shortcomings, help is given and where Belize is lagging and calls for help, help is provided.”