Corruption is one of the greatest tragedies in the history of humanity. It is persistent and difficult to fight, making it more difficult for the poor to find hope while those at the top get richer and more powerful.

Bribes keep chosen criminals from ever taking responsibility for their actions. Politicians use all their cronies as soon as they get elected. Police officers work with drug dealers and cops are blackmailed to silence anyone who dares to object.

According to 2014 data, Haiti, Iraq and North Korea are the most corrupt countries in the world.

The General Assembly of Nations launched International Anti-Corruption Day on October 9th 2003 to raise awareness about corruption and highlight the importance of the United Nations Convention against Corruption for combating and preventing it.

Official reasons given by UN to create this day are that they were “concerned over the seriousness and threats posed corruption to stability and security in societies, undermining institutions and values democracy, ethical values, and justice, and jeopardizing sustainability development and the rule-of-law”.

The United Nations Development Programme and United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime have been organizing the day since its inception. They claim that corruption tolerance has increased since the first day. The increasing number of chief executives and politicians being tried for and convicted of the crime is a sign of this.

There are many ways governments, businesses, non-governmental organizations, media, and the general public can participate in creative activities, reporting on corruption incidents, using the UN anti-corruption logo at events and publications, and spreading the word through social networks like Twitter and Facebook.

Although it may seem small to share something on Facebook and Twitter, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge has shown that social media can play a significant role in improving the world. You could consider donating money to charity to assist those who are most in need in corrupt countries.

Hopeforhaiti.com was founded in 1995 to assist Haiti’s poorest citizens with better education, nutrition, and healthcare. Every dollar can make a difference and go a long way in helping many people, as 70% of Haitians don’t have access to water. You can also sponsor a Somalian child by sponsoring an organization.

Somalia is currently struggling to overcome the civil war in Somalia that has been ongoing since 1991. It is estimated that about 500,000 people have been killed and another 200,000 have been uprooted since then. Somalians need help because of the poverty and hunger that plagues the country, and also the lack of water and high rates of HIV, cholera, and hepatitis infections.

Sponsoring a Somalian child can be much easier than you might think. It costs just PS20 per month. Amazingly, even a small amount of money can make a difference in ensuring that a Somalian child has all the support they need. Whatever way you celebrate this day make sure that you are making a difference in the world.

Sponsoring a Somalian child can be much easier than you might think. It costs just PS20 per month. Amazingly, even a small amount of money can suffice to meet the needs of a Somalian child. Whatever way you celebrate this day, ensure you are doing your part to make the world a better place.