Kelman Seminar: Jonathan Bourguignon – Addressing Corruption in Conflict-Affected Settings to Build Peace and Security: Lessons Learned and Current Engagement of the United Nations

The importance of addressing corruption is increasingly recognized as a crucial part of efforts to keep peace and build sustainable development around the world. Conflict-affected settings are often characterized by high levels of corruption, which can drive conflict dynamics and fuel instability. Corruption also exacerbates inequitable wealth distribution and social and identity-related divisions, further destabilizing state structures and emboldening non-state armed groups.

While there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’, the United Nations has been identifying and implementing specific strategies, methodologies, and tools to support the implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in several conflict and post-conflict environments around the world. This engagement also builds on lessons learned from past and present partnerships within the United Nations system and beyond.