Nordic Experiences in Fighting Corruption

 

Every country must continuously fight against corruption. Success in this battle requires committed leadership, transparency and strong institutions to act as watchdogs.

 

The Nordic countries have a long reputation for being relatively non-corrupt, which is also reflected by the fact that we all are ranked among the top 10 on Transparency International Corruption Index. This condition can be ascribed to strong institutional measures in our countries. These measures are in no way exclusively Nordic, but fundamental principles that should govern any democratic and open society and could also be applied in Vietnam. 

 

We are absolutely convinced that Vietnam can effectively reduce corruption. Corruption hurts the poor and thwarts development. Reducing corruption will make the public sector more effective, attract private investment and increase Vietnam’s competitiveness.

 

We would like to highlight some key principles, derived from Nordic experiences:

 

First, as defined by our constitutions we have separation of powers – meaning division of authority between the executive, legislative and judicial branches. Our democratically elected parliaments exercise forceful and necessary checks and balances on the government and public administration. To enforce this control, our national parliaments have for example established independent state auditor systems and ombudsman institutions, the latter giving citizens an advocate for complaints.

 

Second, in all Nordic countries we have an independent judiciary. All citizens – both rich and poor – have access to justice, are assured a fair trial and the judiciary is trusted by the public.

 

Third, we have a free media that plays a decisive role in democratic governance. Transparency and extended access to public information are fundamental factors in this regard ensured by Freedom of Information Acts and Public Administration Acts. Our state budgets are public and easily accessible.

 

Fourth, a strong legal basis in the form of legislation and clearly defined rules and regulations ensures predictability in public administration and in service delivery. The scope for personal interpretation and exercise of discretionary power has been minimized to the extent possible. If corruption is detected, clear laws and regulations for investigation and subsequent prosecution are in place.

 

Fifth, in all the Nordic countries we have professional civil servants guided by clear ethical codes against corruption. We also have a salary system that ensures all public employees a decent and sufficient salary so they in return devote their full working time to their public functions.

 

We continue to stand ready to share our own experiences with Vietnam at this important moment in time, when the government of Vietnam is about to decide how to fight corruption in the most effective way in this country. If the government is successful in this effort it can prove decisive for the development of Vietnam.