Today, the World Customs Organization (WCO) published the updated version of the Integrity Development Guide (IDG), following its adoption by the Council - the Organization's highest decision-making body - at the end of June 2021. Launched in 2004, the IDG reinforces the WCO Revised Arusha Declaration (RAD) with respect to promoting integrity and good governance in Customs. It provides practical guidelines to assist Customs administrations around the world in implementing various measures designed to enhance integrity within their organizations.
The 2021 edition of the IDG elaborates the ten key factors of the RAD, known to be an essential mechanism for Customs to maintain a high level of integrity, and it offers a unique opportunity for WCO Member Customs Administrations to carry out a step-by-step integrity assessment, following a comprehensive integrity development process.
Enhancing the ten key factors of the RAD and delving into other emerging issues, this version of the Guide highlights the importance for Customs to establish and maintain relationship with State anti-corruption authorities through collective actions to further promote integrity in Customs by adopting a collaborative and concerted approach. It emphasizes that fostering Customs-to-Customs cooperation, using media and social networks, and enhancing gender equality and diversity are vital elements for strengthening integrity in Customs.
On the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, the WCO Secretary General Dr. Kunio Mikuriya said: “All WCO Members and stakeholders are invited to ramp up their individual and collective efforts in promoting the integrity of the international supply chain for the benefits of a safer and more secure international trade, as well as for more efficient and transparent administrations.”
The WCO, through this IDG and other instruments and tools, will continue providing technical assistance and capacity building support to Members and stakeholders to further promote integrity by leveraging new and emerging technologies and data-driven digital culture.