The Anti-Corruption Champions Award: Honoring Global Heroes in the Fight Against Corruption

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In a world where corruption undermines democracies, stifles economic growth, and violates human rights, certain individuals stand as beacons of integrity against overwhelming odds. The Anti-Corruption Champions Award, established by the U.S. Department of State, celebrates these remarkable individuals who risk their careers, reputations, and sometimes even their lives to combat corruption in their communities.

A Global Recognition for Extraordinary Courage

The Anti-Corruption Champions Award highlights individuals from diverse backgrounds—journalists who expose wrongdoing despite threats, prosecutors who pursue cases against powerful interests, civil society leaders who mobilize grassroots movements, and government officials who reform systems from within. What unites these champions is their unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law.

"Corruption is not just a crime—it's a betrayal of public trust," said U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a recent ceremony. "These champions remind us that individual courage can ignite systemic change."

A Growing Legacy of Anti-Corruption Heroes

Since its establishment, the award has recognized dozens of champions across continents. Here's a comprehensive look at these remarkable individuals by year:

2024 Champions

The most recent cohort of Anti-Corruption Champions represents ten countries across multiple regions:

1. Marr Nyang (The Gambia) – Founder of Gambia Participates who has advocated for fiscal transparency and accountability

2. Javier Enrique Caraballo Salazar (Panama) – Prosecutor who has tackled complex corruption and money laundering cases

3. Matrika Dahal (Nepal) – Investigative journalist exposing corruption in infrastructure projects

4. Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo (Uganda) – Academic and cartoonist who uses satire to highlight corruption

5. Altin Dumani (Albania) – Head of the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) leading high-profile prosecutions

6. Jorge Mora Cortes (Colombia) – Military officer who has fought corruption within defense institutions

7. Didar Smagulov (Kazakhstan) – Anti-corruption activist promoting transparency in public procurement

8. Sevinj Vagifgizi (Azerbaijan) – Investigative journalist uncovering government corruption despite significant personal risk

9. Carl Irani (Lebanon) – Advocate for judicial independence and anti-corruption reforms

10. Dr. Srbuhi Galyan (Armenia) – Academic and activist promoting integrity in educational institutions

2023 Champions

The 2023 awardees demonstrated remarkable resilience in challenging environments:

1. Veronica Mihailov-Moraru (Moldova) – Legal expert advancing judicial reforms

2. Jean-Claude Mputu (Democratic Republic of Congo) – Civil society leader advocating for transparency in extractive industries

3. Francisco Belo Simões da Costa (Timor-Leste) – Anti-corruption commissioner strengthening institutional frameworks

4. Nikhil Dey (India) – Right to information activist empowering citizens to fight corruption

5. Annette Planells (Panama) – Co-founder of the Independent Movement (MOVIN) pushing for electoral and political integrity

6. Stanislau Ivashkevich (Belarus) – Investigative journalist working despite severe government repression

7. Vladimir Novović (Montenegro) – Civil society leader monitoring public procurement

8. Ali (Mukhammedali) Toktakunov (Kyrgyz Republic) – Journalist who exposed massive corruption schemes

9. Marc N. Kollie (Liberia) – Public servant promoting integrity in government operations

10. May De Silva (Seychelles) – Anti-corruption commission leader investigating high-level corruption

11. Arturo Torres (Ecuador) – Investigative journalist uncovering corruption in multiple administrations

2022 Champions

These individuals stood firm against corruption despite significant obstacles:

1. Marco Antonio Rueda Soto (Colombia) – Prosecutor tackling corruption in public contracts

2. Antonio Cervantes Castro (Mexico) – Advocate for transparency in public affairs

3. Janet Zhou (Zimbabwe) – Civil society leader promoting economic governance reforms

4. Jean Joseph Rakotoarisoa (Madagascar) – Judicial figure fighting for court independence

5. Steven Dupljanovic (Serbia) – Whistleblower exposing corruption in public enterprises

6. Qismah Salih Ali Mandil (Iraq) – Advocate for transparent governance in post-conflict context

7. Rozina Islam (Bangladesh) – Journalist whose investigations into health sector corruption led to her arrest

8. Cynthia Gabriel (Malaysia) – Founder of the Center to Combat Corruption and Cronyism (C4)

2021 Champions

The 2021 awardees broke new ground in anti-corruption efforts:

1. Carlos Giovanni Ruano Pineda (Guatemala) – Judge who strengthened the independence of the judiciary

2. Gabriela Alejandra Castellanos (Honduras) – Leader of the National Anti-Corruption Council

3. Dorothy Bradley (Belize) – Auditor General who exposed misuse of public funds

4. Carlos Paparoni (Venezuela) – Legislator tracking corruption and illicit finance despite exile

5. Alexandra Attalides (Cyprus) – Journalist and activist promoting transparency

6..Juris Juriss (Latvia) – Prosecutor pursuing complex corruption cases

7. Riad Kobeissi (Lebanon) – Investigative journalist exposing corruption in public infrastructure

8. Nikolay Staykov (Bulgaria) – Co-founder of the Anti-Corruption Fund

9..Jamiliya Maricheva (Kazakhstan) – Attorney promoting rule of law reforms

10. Martha Chizuma (Malawi) – Ombudsman tackling systemic corruption

11. Denise Namburete (Mozambique) – Civil society leader exposing the "hidden debt" scandal

12. Dr. Torplus Yomnak (Thailand) – Academic developing innovative anti-corruption tools

Additional Notable Champions (Year Unspecified)

1. Juan Francisco Sandoval Alfaro (Guatemala) – Former head of anti-corruption prosecution unit who fled into exile

2. Diana Salazar (Ecuador) – Prosecutor General pursuing high-profile corruption cases

3. Francis Ben Kaifala (Sierra Leone) – Anti-corruption commission leader

4. Mustafa Abdullah Sanalla (Libya) – Oil company chairman fighting corruption in the energy sector

5. Ardian Dvorani (Albania) – Judge leading judicial vetting processes

6. Ruslan Ryaboshapka (Ukraine) – Former Prosecutor General who initiated reforms

7. Ibrahima Kalil Gueye (Guinea) – Journalist exposing corruption despite threats

8. Dhuha A. Mohammed (Iraq) – Advocate for transparency in reconstruction efforts

9. Bolot Temirov (The Kyrgyz Republic) – Investigative journalist facing persecution for his work

10. Anjali Bhardwaj (India) – Right to information activist

11.  Sophia Pretrick (The Federated States of Micronesia) – Compliance investigator

12. Victor Sotto (The Philippines) – Radio broadcaster assassinated after exposing local corruption

Impact Beyond Recognition

The Anti-Corruption Champions Award does more than acknowledge individual achievement—it provides crucial visibility that can help protect these advocates in dangerous environments. For many recipients, international recognition has amplified their work, built valuable networks, and inspired others to join anti-corruption movements.

"Being recognized internationally gave our local efforts credibility and protection," noted one previous recipient. "Corrupt officials think twice when they know the world is watching."

The Evolving Battleground

As corruption techniques grow more sophisticated—involving complex financial mechanisms, cross-border transactions, and digital technologies—so too must anti-corruption efforts evolve. Recent awardees have been recognized for innovative approaches:

Using data analytics to detect suspicious patterns in public procurement

Leveraging social media to mobilize public pressure for accountability

Creating digital platforms that allow citizens to report corruption anonymously

Developing international coalitions to track illicit financial flows

The Path Forward

While the Anti-Corruption Champions Award celebrates significant victories, the global fight against corruption remains challenging. Many recipients continue their work in hostile environments where anti-corruption efforts face significant backlash.

The award represents more than recognition—it symbolizes the international community's commitment to supporting those who stand against corruption. By highlighting these individuals' stories and achievements, the award contributes to building a global culture of transparency, accountability, and integrity.

As one champion eloquently stated: "Corruption thrives in darkness. Our job is to bring light—no matter the personal cost.

Pasig City Mayor Victor Sotto has been recognized as an Anti-Corruption Champion, a testament to his unwavering commitment to transparency and ethical governance. His leadership has set a high standard for public service, prioritizing accountability through initiatives such as an information and complaints hotline, active civil society participation in policymaking, and reforms to eliminate bribery in government contracts. His efforts have made Pasig a model for clean governance, proving that integrity-driven leadership can create real, transformative change.

Inspired by such recognition, Ross Flores Del Rosario, founder of Wazzup Pilipinas, envisions a future where he, too, is honored for his relentless pursuit of truth and accountability. As a vocal advocate for transparency in governance and community affairs, he remains dedicated to using journalism as a powerful tool to expose irregularities and champion ethical leadership. With his influence and integrity, Del Rosario aims to be among the Anti-Corruption Champions who drive meaningful reforms in the Philippines and beyond.

Anticorruption Champions Award: Champions of Integrity, The Global Fight Against Corruption

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Corruption corrodes societies from within, weakening institutions, stifling economic progress, and eroding public trust in governance. Around the world, courageous individuals rise against this menace, often at great personal risk. To honor their unwavering commitment, the U.S. Department of State launched the Anti-Corruption Champions Award (ACCA) in 2021. This prestigious recognition is bestowed annually upon activists, journalists, legal professionals, and government officials who have demonstrated extraordinary bravery in the battle for transparency and accountability.

Let’s take a closer look at these remarkable individuals who have shaped the global anti-corruption movement from 2021 to the present.

2021: Inaugural Champions – Laying the Foundation for Change

The first-ever Anti-Corruption Champions Award was presented on December 8, 2021, by Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken. These honorees, hailing from diverse backgrounds, were recognized for their tireless efforts in exposing corruption and advocating for reform:

1. Dorothy Bradley (Belize) – A pioneer in governmental transparency and financial accountability.

2. Nikolay Staykov (Bulgaria) – An investigative journalist who fearlessly uncovered corruption at the highest levels.

3. Alexandra Attalides (Cyprus) – A reformist advocating for civic engagement and political accountability.

4. Carlos Giovanni Ruano Pineda (Guatemala) – A judge known for his steadfast commitment to judicial independence.

5. Gabriela Alejandra Castellanos (Honduras) – A watchdog leader investigating corruption in public institutions.

6. Jamiliya Maricheva (Kazakhstan) – A human rights activist spearheading anti-corruption initiatives.

7. Juris Juriss (Latvia) – A prosecutor dedicated to tackling high-profile corruption cases.

8. Riad Kobeissi (Lebanon) – A journalist who exposed corruption within Lebanon’s customs authority.

9. Martha Chizuma (Malawi) – A fearless advocate for anti-corruption policy reforms.

10. Denise Namburete (Mozambique) – An activist ensuring financial transparency in government dealings.

11. Dr. Torplus Yomnak (Thailand) – A researcher promoting anti-corruption education.

12. Carlos Paparoni (Venezuela) – A legislator confronting corruption linked to drug trafficking networks.

The champions named year 2021 are:

1. Ardian Dvorani, judge and member of the Justice Appointments Council of Albania;

2. Diana Salazar, Ecuador’s attorney general;

3. Sophia Pretrick, investigative advisor for the Compliance Investigation Division of the Pohnpei State Auditor of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM);

4. Juan Francisco Sandoval Alfaro, chief of the Special Prosecutors Office Against Corruption and Impunity in Guatemala;

5. Ibrahima Kalil Gueye, Chair and co-founder of the Organization for Positive Change, an NGO focusing on good governance, peace, and education in Guinea;

6. Anjali Bhardwaj, an active member of the Right to Information Movement in India;

7. Dhuha A. Mohammed, director-general for Electronic Payments at the Central Bank of Iraq;

8. Mustafa Abdullah Sanalla, chairman of Libya’s National Oil Corporation;

9. Francis Ben Kaifala, commissioner of Sierra Leone’s Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC);

10. Ruslan Ryaboshapka, former prosecutor general in Ukraine; 

11. Bolot Temirov, investigative journalist and editor-in-chief of Factcheck.kg in the Kyrgyz Republic.

12. Victor Sotto, Pasig City, Philippines Mayor

*From US Embassy in the Philippines 

These champions set the stage for what would become a globally recognized initiative in the fight against corruption.

2022: Strengthening the Global Anti-Corruption Movement

On December 9, 2022, to mark International Anti-Corruption Day, the U.S. Department of State honored eight more champions whose relentless pursuit of justice has made a lasting impact:

1. Antonio Cervantes García (Mexico) – A legal expert protecting indigenous rights and advocating for transparency.

2. Jean de Dieu Rakotondramihamina (Madagascar) – A leader in financial auditing and public accountability.

3. Stevan Dojcinovic (Serbia) – A journalist exposing organized crime and corruption.

4. Cynthia Gabriel (Malaysia) – A human rights defender pushing for anti-corruption reforms.

5. Rozina Islam (Bangladesh) – A journalist uncovering corruption in the healthcare sector.

6. Marco Antonio Rueda Soto (Colombia) – A judge maintaining judicial integrity in the face of political pressure.

7. Qismah Salih Ali Mendeli (Iraq) – An inspector general ensuring accountability in public institutions.

8. Janet Zhou (Zimbabwe) – A civil society leader advocating for government transparency.

2023: Expanding the Fight Against Corruption

In December 2023, the Department of State honored eleven exceptional individuals for their relentless courage:

1. Veronica Mihailov-Moraru (Moldova) – A Justice Minister spearheading judicial reforms.

2. Nikhil Dey (India) – A grassroots activist championing the right to information.

3. Stanislau Ivaskhevich (Belarus) – A journalist uncovering government corruption.

4. Marc N. Kollie (Liberia) – An investigator targeting bribery at the highest levels.

5. Francisco Belo Simoes da Costa (Timor-Leste) – A whistleblower revealing corrupt government dealings.

6. Jean-Claude Mputu (Democratic Republic of the Congo) – An advocate exposing corruption in the mining sector.

7. Vladimir Novovic (Montenegro) – A prosecutor leading high-profile anti-corruption cases.

8. Annette Planells (Panama) – A transparency advocate fighting against political corruption.

9. May De Silva (Seychelles) – An anti-corruption commissioner strengthening accountability institutions.

10. Arturo Torres (Ecuador) – A journalist investigating drug trafficking and corruption.

11. "Ali" Totakunov (Kyrgyz Republic) – A reporter known for bold anti-corruption reporting.

2024: A New Generation of Integrity Defenders

As the world continues to grapple with corruption, ten more anti-corruption champions were recognized on December 9, 2024:

1. Jorge Mora Cortes (Colombia) – A prosecutor leading groundbreaking corruption investigations.

2. Matrika Dahal (Nepal) – An activist ensuring transparency in public service delivery.

3. Altin Dumani (Albania) – A legal professional enforcing anti-corruption laws.

4. Srbuhi Galyan (Armenia) – A judge known for her integrity in upholding the rule of law.

5. Carl Irani (Lebanon) – An auditor improving financial accountability in government agencies.

6. Marr Nyang (The Gambia) – A youth leader advocating for fiscal transparency.

7. Javier Enrique Caraballo Salazar (Panama) – An attorney general prosecuting high-profile corruption cases.

8. Didar Smagulov (Kazakhstan) – An activist leading campaigns against bureaucratic corruption.

9. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo (Uganda) – A satirist and academic highlighting corruption through art and education.

10. Sevinj Vagifgizi (Azerbaijan) - A reporter, journalist and political prisoner.

A Legacy of Courage and Integrity

The Anti-Corruption Champions Award has become a beacon of hope in the fight for transparency, integrity, and good governance. From investigative journalists exposing high-profile scandals to legal professionals ensuring justice prevails, these individuals remind the world that corruption is not inevitable—it is a battle that can be won.

Their courage sends a powerful message: No matter the obstacles, the fight against corruption must continue.

As we move forward, the stories of these champions will inspire future generations to take a stand, ensuring that integrity triumphs over corruption.

A Call to Protect the Philippines: PMPI Condemns Maharlika Investment Corporation’s Backing of Destructive Mining Project

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The Philippine Misereor Partnership Inc. (PMPI) is raising a strong objection against the Maharlika Investment Corporation's (MIC) recent decision to fund a gold and copper mining project in Kalinga province. This move, which aligns government-backed financial resources with an industry notorious for environmental destruction and social displacement, blatantly contradicts the principles of sustainability and responsible governance that the MIC was supposedly established to uphold.

A Misaligned Investment

Created through Republic Act 11954, the Maharlika Investment Fund (MIF) was designed to drive economic growth and support sustainable development. However, instead of directing funds toward truly progressive sectors such as renewable energy, climate resilience, infrastructure, and social services, the MIC has chosen to invest in mining—an industry long associated with irreversible ecological damage, human rights violations, and minimal economic contribution.

Mining remains one of the most environmentally destructive industries, contributing significantly to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and water contamination. Additionally, its economic benefits are disproportionate to the damage it inflicts, as it contributes minimally to national revenue and employment while exploiting natural resources that should be safeguarded for future generations.

It is deeply alarming that taxpayers’ money—hard-earned by Filipino citizens—will be funneled into a sector notorious for social exploitation, displacement of indigenous communities, and long-term ecological harm.

The Harsh Reality of Mining in the Philippines

The Philippines has a grim history with large-scale mining operations. Numerous cases have documented how mining companies have bypassed the Free, Prior, and Informed Consent (FPIC) process, a fundamental right of indigenous peoples under the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA). Many mining projects have led to:

Massive deforestation and loss of biodiversity

Forced displacement of indigenous and rural communities

Soil and water contamination due to toxic waste and heavy metal pollution

Increased risk of disasters such as landslides and flooding

The loan agreement between MIC and Makilala Mining Company is not just a financial decision—it is a direct threat to the Philippines’ fragile ecosystems, indigenous communities, and national climate commitments.

A Direct Contradiction to Climate Goals

This mining project undermines the Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ (DENR) commitment to increasing forest cover by 3 million hectares by 2028 and achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Deforestation: Mining sites require clearing vast areas of land, leading to the loss of thousands of old-growth trees. These forests are crucial carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and mitigating the effects of climate change.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The process of soil extraction releases methane, a greenhouse gas 28 times more potent than carbon dioxide. This further accelerates global warming.

Water Contamination: Toxic waste from mining operations pollutes rivers and groundwater sources, affecting both human populations and wildlife.

As the world faces a climate emergency, the Philippine government cannot afford to support projects that contribute to environmental degradation and climate instability.

A Dangerous Precedent for Environmental Defenders

Communities resisting mining operations often face intimidation, harassment, and even violence. According to the 2022 Global Witness Report, the Philippines remains one of the deadliest countries for Environmental Human Rights Defenders (EHRDs)—with 11 out of 16 killings in Asia occurring in the country.

If the government continues to support destructive industries, it further endangers environmental advocates and local communities, silencing those who fight to protect the land, water, and rights of marginalized groups.

PMPI’s Call to Action

PMPI strongly condemns the MIC’s decision to finance this mining project and urges immediate action to halt the misuse of public funds for environmentally destructive activities. We demand:

Immediate withdrawal of MIC’s financial support for Makilala Mining Company

 and other environmentally harmful projects.

Greater transparency and accountability in the allocation of the Maharlika Investment Fund, ensuring that investments prioritize sustainable industries.

Upholding the rights of indigenous peoples and local communities, respecting their autonomy over ancestral lands.

Strengthening environmental policies to prevent further ecological destruction and promote genuinely sustainable economic growth.

The Philippines must choose a development path that values people and the planet over profit. There is no justification for prioritizing short-term economic gains at the expense of our country’s natural heritage, climate resilience, and the well-being of future generations.

Join the Movement

PMPI calls on all concerned citizens, environmental advocates, and policymakers to speak out against this reckless decision. The fight for environmental justice requires collective action—now more than ever.

#PMPI #ProtectOurLand #RejectDestructiveMining #MaharlikaForThePeople