It is estimated that of the USD$7.5 trillion spent globally on health each year, USD$500 billion is lost to corruption. The health sector is a complex and multifaceted part of the global health ecosystem, with many stakeholders involved and multiple entry points for corruption. While the health sector is highly vulnerable to corruption during regular times, the COVID-19 pandemic has heightened this susceptibility, as this pandemic has required quick and nimble actions by governments to secure critical medical supplies. Corruption is endemic in many countries in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and the pandemic has highlighted the risks of corruption, particularly in the health sector.

This study is part of UNDP’s ongoing support to assist governments and other stakeholders to reduce and manage corruption risks in the health sector. Based on a rapid literature review and key informant interviews, this publication identified areas at risk of corruption in the health sector, as well as good practices and evidence-based recommendations as points of intervention for policy and practices. Findings from this study may be of interest and useful to policymakers, public officials, healthcare system professionals, the private sector (particularly suppliers of health commodities), and NGOs, as well as international organizations and researchers.

For inquiries, please contact Irakli Kotetishvili (irakli.kotetishvili@undp.org) and Marina Smelyanskaya (marina.smelyanskaya@undp.org)