Ms Julie MUDirector of Community Relations

Independent Commission Against CorruptionHong Kong, China

The 7th IAACA Annual Conference and General Meeting

Workshop I : Anti-Corruption Agencies in a Changing World: Independence, Accountability and Transparency

“Sustaining Anti-Corruption Efficacy Amid Changing Public Expectations:

Hong Kong Experience”

“Sustaining Anti-Corruption Efficacy Amid Changing Public Expectations:

Hong Kong Experience”

Enforce the law relentlessly Be responsive to the demands

and expectations of societies they serve

For ACAs to tackle corruption effectively, they must

Independence,Accountability andTransparency –Critical Factors forSuccess of ACAs

Independence,Accountability andTransparency –Critical Factors forSuccess of ACAs

Hong Kong Government’s response to public aspirations

Strong political will of the government

Concerted efforts of the ICAC, the government and the community

Establishment of the ICAC in 1974

The Hong Kong ExperienceThe Hong Kong Experience

Corruption Situation of Hong KongCorruption Situation of Hong Kong

Corruption is firmly under control, with no sign of deterioration.

Corruption is uncommon in Hong Kong. The general public demonstrated an extremely low

tolerance of corruption. Recognition from the international community.

Hong Kong: a clean and efficient government and a fair business environment.

Safeguarding IndependenceSafeguarding Independence

The Basic Law Anti-corruption laws – statutory duty of ICAC Established legal procedures

Ensuring AccountabilityEnsuring Accountability

Accounts of the ICAC are under scrutiny of the Audit Commission

An independent review committee (IRC) was set up by the Chief Executive to review ICAC’s regulatory systems and procedures

Enhancing TransparencyEnhancing Transparency

Striking for a balance between:

Safeguarding confidentiality

Preserving the integrity of investigation

Protecting the reputation of the subjects of investigation

Giving due regard to the public’s right to know

Enhancing TransparencyEnhancing Transparency

Press briefings Media interviews Press releases ICAC’s corporate website Open Days TV drama series Smartphone App

Robust Checks and Balances SystemRobust Checks and Balances System

Advisory and independent committees Department of Justice Judiciary Legislative Council Internal monitoring Media

Meeting Challenges AheadMeeting Challenges Ahead

Increased sophistication of corruption and the intelligence of the corrupt

Increased public concerns over human rights and personal privacy

Effective checks on the exercise of powers by law enforcement agencies

Demands for the integrity of public officials

Expectation of ACAs to comply with the highest standard of effectiveness and integrity

Meeting Challenges AheadMeeting Challenges Ahead

ICAC went through two comprehensive reviews:

Bill of Rights Ordinance in 1991

Review Committee on ICAC’s powers and accountability in 1994

Interception of Communications and Surveillance Ordinance in 2006

Meeting Challenges AheadMeeting Challenges Ahead

Hong Kong’s anti-corruption system remains sound and vibrant

ICAC’s case conviction rate at 80% Public’s support rate of 98-99%

Meeting Challenges AheadMeeting Challenges Ahead

Adhere to the law

Rely on checks and balances to ensure impartiality and accountability

Stay sensitive to changing public expectations and strengthen our internal governance

Thank you!Thank you!