Government vows stronger fight against corruption

Members of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand join an anti-corruption parade in September 2023. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)
Users of the Thai Chamber of Commerce and the Board of Trade of Thailand take part in a rally to protest corruption in September 2023. ( Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)

The government has vowed to be proactive in addressing corruption in a bid to raise&nbsp, Thailand’s Corruption Perceptions Index ( CPI ) score from 35 to over 50 out of 100.

Chousak Sirinil, the secretary of the prime minister’s office, presided over a meeting on Monday to make the oath on World Anti-Corruption Day.

The event was co-organised by the National Anti-Corruption Commission ( NACC), the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission ( PACC), and the Anti-Corruption Organization of Thailand.

The 20-Year National Strategy ( 2018-2037 ) includes a CPI target score of over 50 for the nation.

The meeting, attended by 3, 000 individuals, featured some hobbies and shows that supported the principles of eradicating problem.

In his presentation address, Mr Chousak acknowledged that problem has been a frequent topic in Thailand, causing significant injury to the country’s business, politics and international standing.

He pointed out that the government’s CPI index has remained sluggish at 35-36 out of 100 over recent years, reflecting limited progress in addressing the issue.

The state, according to Mr. Chousak, is committed to accountability and excellent management.

He claimed that as part of this, the government had pledged to uphold the rule of law, assure effective funds control, and support efforts to end corruption with the public interest in mind.

The secretary highlighted important anti-corruption methods, including strengthening legal systems, promoting online transparency in public services, ensuring merit-based appointments, reducing opportunities for corruption, and making position operations more visible.

He also advocated for greater collaboration between the public and private sectors, arguing that tackling corruption must be a shared national priority.

He stressed the importance of integrating anti-corruption measures into the 20-year national strategy ( 2018-2037 ) to ensure long-term, systemic reforms.

Additionally, he said, the government aims to improve whistleblowing mechanisms, making it easier for citizens to report corruption cases.

The event ended with a formal declaration led by Mr. Chousak, in which participants pledged to act honestly, reject bribery, and place public interest above personal gain.

They also vowed to protect Thailand’s core institutions, including the monarchy, religion and state, while adhering to the principles of justice and transparency.

” Today’s event reflects a firm commitment to addressing corruption seriously and continuously. It also demonstrates the collective stance of all sectors of the Thai society to neither commit, tolerate, nor remain indifferent to corruption”, Mr Chousak concluded.