The Hong Kong model - building an effective anti-corruption agency

This paper examines factors that contributed to the effectiveness of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) of Hong Kong, China as a blueprint for building an effective anti-corruption agency. It describes how Hong Kong transitioned from widespread corruption 50 years ago to now having a comparatively low corruption level. Key enablers of the ICAC’s success identified include unwavering political commitment, a robust rule of law system, institutionalization at constitutional, societal, strategic and organizational levels, and robust accountability checks. The ICAC utilizes an integrated three-pronged strategy of law enforcement, prevention, and education. Over time, this holistic approach helped cultivate a clean governance culture through a self-reinforcing “virtuous cycle.” Hong Kong demonstrates that a long-term, comprehensive strategy addressing both symptoms and root causes of corruption is needed within an enabling context of strong political will, rule of law, accountability system and public support.