The Anti-Corruption Act of Bhutan established the legal framework for combating corruption, defining offenses and penalties, and empowering the Anti-Corruption Commission to investigate and prosecute cases.
Overview
The Anti-Corruption Act of Bhutan was enacted in 2011, providing the legal and regulatory framework for Bhutan's anti-corruption efforts and defining the powers and mandate of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).[1]
Corruption Offences
The Act defines 35 distinct corruption offences, including:[2]
- Bribery (active and passive, including bribery of foreign public officials)
- Embezzlement
- Abuse of functions and office
- Trading in influence
- Possession of unexplained wealth
- False claims and failure to declare conflicts of interest
- Abuse of privileged information
- Money laundering
Key Provisions
- Asset declaration: Mandatory for all public servants[2]
- Whistleblower protection: Identity of witnesses and informants safeguarded under Chapter 7[1]
- False reporting penalties: Knowingly providing false information with malicious intent is a punishable offence[1]
- Embezzlement penalties: Minimum 1 year to maximum 3 years imprisonment for small-scale embezzlement[2]
Context
The Act reflects Bhutan's commitment to good governance as a pillar of Gross National Happiness. Bhutan ranked 18th globally on Transparency International's 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index, with a score of 72/100.[3]
References
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