"Anti-corruption efforts" can include a wide array of initiatives. For purposes of this paper, identification of an "anti-corruption effort" is based on the framework found in Article III of the Convention (see Appendix I).

Article III specifically lists the means by which governments can decrease and deter corruption. The 12 points detailed in Article III can be grouped into three major categories: Standards, Enforcement Mechanisms and Civil Society.

Standards include such efforts as the adoption of money laundering laws, reform of personnel codes, creation of guidelines to guide the conduct of government officials and employees, and agreement to sign, ratify and adhere to international anti-corruption treaties. Legislation under consideration by national congresses is not accounted for in this compendium because, as in any legislative process the end product is always in doubt.

Enforcement Mechanisms include actions such as institutional strengthening of the office of the comptroller general, the finance ministry, customs and other agencies, adopting new information and computer systems and improving administration procedures.

Efforts by non-governmental organizations and professional associations, in particular--activities such as public awareness campaigns, public hearings, opinion surveys and conferences are included in this category.

A compendium of this type is, by its nature, incomplete. Democracy and good governance reforms are ongoing and some are more successful than others. It is also imprecise, in that laws, while enacted, may not be enforced. Corrupt acts that are prosecuted may fall victim to dishonest judges. Victory in the pursuit of government transparency and accountability is not reflected in the adoption of any single measure but, rather, is the product of an ongoing process incorporating all segments of society that only can be judged a success or failure over time.

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