Freedom for Eurasia today marks International Anti-Corruption Day by calling for renewed international commitment to confronting the pervasive corruption and kleptocratic systems that continue to undermine human rights, democratic institutions, and public trust across Eurasia.
“Corruption in our region is not simply financial misconduct—it is a central mechanism of authoritarian control, enabling repression, silencing critics, and eroding every layer of public life,” said Leila Seiitbek, Chairwoman of Freedom for Eurasia. “Those who expose it—journalists, activists, lawyers, and whistleblowers—are facing unprecedented levels of intimidation and retaliation. They need protection, not persecution.”
Freedom for Eurasia warns that corruption across Central Asia and the wider Eurasian region is increasingly transnational. Authoritarian elites continue to move illicit wealth through foreign jurisdictions, exploit weak regulatory systems, and use state institutions to shield themselves from accountability.
The organisation stresses that meaningful progress requires:
- Independent media and civil society able to investigate wrongdoing without fear;
- Accountable courts and public institutions, free from political interference;
- Stronger international cooperation to disrupt illicit financial networks;
- Effective protections for whistleblowers, human rights defenders, and investigative journalists.
“Anti-corruption efforts cannot be selective or politically manipulated. Real reform demands transparency, rule of law, and genuine safeguards for those who speak the truth,” Leila Seiitbek added. “As long as kleptocrats can launder stolen assets abroad, the cycle of repression will continue at home. International partners must act decisively.”
Despite increasing risks, citizens across Eurasia—especially younger generations—continue to demand accountable governance, fairness, and integrity. Their persistence, the organisation noted, remains a powerful force for democratic change.
On this International Anti-Corruption Day, Freedom for Eurasia reaffirms its commitment to supporting these efforts, documenting abuses, advocating for transparency, and strengthening protections for those on the front lines of the anti-corruption struggle.