Cheyenne Lim Xi Min 303

Write a speech highlighting what you think is the most challenging issue facing the world today, and how Commonwealth values can be used to solve it. 

In today’s day and age, we are faced with many challenges and issues, one of such, which I personally believe is the most challenging, complicated and harsh, is corruption. What exactly is corruption? Why is it so challenging? What can we do to solve this issue? These are some of the many questions that you may have after hearing what I said earlier. Corruption refers to the abuse of power by dishonest and greedy people. It's the abuse of entrusted power for one’s private gain. It creates a lack of trust in the people towards those in power. And finally, corruption can occur in many forms such as embezzlement, fraud, bribery etcetera. Corruption sure is scary don’t you think? However there is always light at the end of the tunnel. We can do something about it. We can step up and make a change. We can, together, fight a strong battle against corruption. And how exactly are we able to do that? Three words: “Embrace Commonwealth values”.

So, what values exactly can help fight our battle against corruption? Well, there is not one, two, but three principles which are our practical tools in our fight against corruption - transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. Transparency ensures that there is always a light shining on the corrupt actors, exposing their wrongdoings to the society. Accountability ensures that those who betray their society, their own peoples’ trust will be held accountable for their actions, regardless of their personal status. The rule of law ensures that justice is being served, and that no one is above the law.

Imagine being a diligent employee, working tirelessly from 9 to 5 everyday just to provide for your family, and pay the taxes as contribution to the society, only to realise that the tax collectors are using our money, making shady under-the-table deals for their own benefit. This is where transparency comes into place. Transparency is like a spotlight in a dark room, it ensures that when government budgets and expenditures are being laid down, there is nowhere for corrupt actors to hide. It ensures that all the hardworking taxpayers in the country will not have their tax money being selfishly given away for the benefit of someone’s private matters.

Transparency is only one part of the equation. Accountability is the next crucial step. How would you feel, if someone of a high status has committed serious crime, causing chaos and unsettling among the neighbourhood. Wouldn’t you want this person to take accountability of their own actions and be punished? I am sure many of you would. But, how would you feel if they got away with it by bribing the judge during trial? Accountability ensures that everyone, regardless of social status or wealth, is responsible for their own wrongdoings and will not bribe their way out of it, and will instead face the consequences of their own errors.

Finally, the rule of law. The rule of law is not some fancy words being strung together. It means that no one is above the law. No one has the right to change the law to their own favour. No one will be exempted from punishment because of their social status. Without the rule of law, society will wreak havoc. Imagine a place where everyone can change the rules when they want to, or where some people could do whatever they want without facing consequences. I am sure no one would want to live in this type of society. The rule of law is simple, it keeps things fair and smooth, making sure no one has the ability to do what they want, whenever they want without facing consequences.

Even with these values in place, let’s not sugarcoat the challenge ahead. Combating corruption is no easy task, it requires hard work, dedication, perseverance and determination. If you think that is all it takes to be able to battle corruption? Think twice. We will need a committee of people who are committed to faithfully uphold honesty, integrity, and fairness in all aspects of our life.

As members of the Commonwealth, I strongly believe that we all have a shared responsibility to model the way, show the world that corruption will not be tolerated. We must stand by the three important values - transparency, accountability and the rule of law. We must work together, put aside our differences, to build a better world where integrity triumphs over greed, and where justice is served for all.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, "Be the change that you wish to see in the world." Let us all heed these words and rise to the challenge before us. Together, we can build a world where honesty is rewarded, corruption is condemned, and the common good emerges victorious.

Thank you.