The “Piloting the Implementation of the United Nations Convention Against Corruption (UNCAC) in Honduras” outlines the self-assessment process undertaken by Honduras to evaluate its compliance with the UNCAC framework. The report reviews the country’s progress in implementing anti-corruption measures, identifies challenges in the current framework, and provides recommendations for strengthening institutional and legislative mechanisms.
Key Highlights:
- Assessment Scope and Methodology:
- The self-assessment focuses on criminal justice procedures, public sector transparency, and international cooperation in fighting corruption.
- The evaluation leverages responses to the UNCAC self-assessment checklist and stakeholder consultations.
- Progress in Implementation:
- Honduras has implemented several measures to combat domestic bribery and strengthen its public sector accountability through specialized anti-corruption institutions.
- The country has established frameworks for international cooperation and asset recovery, albeit with limited operational success.
- Key Challenges:
- Gaps in legislative alignment with UNCAC provisions, particularly regarding transnational bribery, abuse of functions, and trading in influence.
- Limited capacity in investigative and judicial processes, including insufficient coordination among anti-corruption agencies.
- Recommendations:
- Strengthen the legal framework by addressing gaps in laws related to bribery, public sector ethics, and procurement practices.
- Enhance capacity-building initiatives for key stakeholders, including judicial and enforcement authorities.
- Develop mechanisms for better interagency coordination and stakeholder engagement.
Note on Preparation
This report was prepared by a joint team of the World Bank and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), led by Mr. Arun Arya, Senior Public Sector Specialist at the World Bank. The team also included contributions from other specialists, assisting the Honduran authorities in conducting this comprehensive self-assessment of UNCAC implementation.