Fighting Corruption in Developing Countries and Emerging Economies: The Role of the Private Sector" broke new ground in the global campaign to combat corruption. This unique conference attracted business and government leaders from around the world to Washington, where they spent two days hammering out effective anti-corruption strategies for the future. The result, in the words of one conference participant, was a "sense of shared accomplishment and purpose, a recognition that many of us face similar challenges and that we are all in this boat together."

The private sector is playing a vital role in the fight against corruption. With increasing frequency, businesses representing all walks of life are eschewing corruption and "blowing the whistle" on those who encourage corrupt practices. This is true not just for multinationals, but for local firms in emerging economies and developing countries as well.

Corruption is one of the world's oldest and best established vices. It inhibits development, squanders valuable resources, and undermines the confidence of investors. It is significant that today, as we enter a new millennium, real progress is being made to rid the globe of this insidious influence. The story continues to unfold, but it is clear that the Washington Conference on Corruption represents an important chapter in the burgeoning effort to combat corruption around the world.

The Honorable William M. Daley
Secretary
U.S. Department of Commerce

Dr. Jean Bonvin
President Emeritus
OECD Development Center

For the OECD Development Center, the issue of corruption remains one of our top priorities. This is a commitment that is shared throughout the OECD, as evidenced by such successful endeavors as the Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials, conducting research into corruption and aid, and devising solutions to control and prevent corrupt practices within the public administrations of OECD Member countries.

Like the Washington Conference on Corruption itself, this publication is very much a cooperative effort. Special thanks is due to the Project Director, Irne Hors, who played a key role in conceptualizing the conference and in preparing this Final Report. The conference organizers, Intercom International Consultants, are also to be commended for their professionalism. Most important of all, I wish to thank our co-sponsors and partners for their dedication and financial support.

H.E. Jorge Braga de Macedo
President
OECD Development Center