MANILA, Philippines — Every year, trillions of dollars, equivalent to more than five percent of global gross domestic production, are paid in bribes or stolen through corruption worldwide. Around $2.6 trillion is lost annually to corruption – money that is urgently needed for healthcare, education, clean water, infrastructure and other essential services, the UN said. In the 15 years since its adoption, the Convention Against Corruption has achieved near-universal status, with 186 signatory states. We can educate and empower citizens, promote transparency and strengthen international cooperation to recover stolen assets,” Guterres said. “Thanks to the Convention, nearly every country in the world now has laws in place making corruption a crime,” he said.

Source: Philippine Star December 09, 2018 16:00 UTC