In a groundbreaking initiative, the Government of El Salvador has unveiled the Master’s Program in Anti-Corruption and Compliance, a first-of-its-kind higher education program globally. The launch, held on International Anti-Corruption Day, was spearheaded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through the José Gustavo Guerrero Diplomatic Institute (IDG).

This innovative program solidifies El Salvador’s leadership in training public sector specialists to tackle corruption, aligning with President Nayib Bukele’s 2023 declaration of war against this pervasive issue.

“This specialized training serves as a reminder of the global commitment to combat corruption, which threatens development, justice, and institutional trust,” said Adriana Mira, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Vice President of IDG’s Academic Council.

The curriculum, designed with input from experts across 33 state institutions, has been developed in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Mira highlighted the program’s societal importance, emphasizing how corruption undermines democracy, human rights, and national security, fostering threats like terrorism and organized crime.

The master’s program aims to expand and modernize knowledge while strengthening state efforts in anti-corruption measures. Open to compliance officials and public servants involved in combating corruption, the first cohort’s enrollment is now underway.

The launch event was attended by prominent figures, including Berta Nayerlly Loya, UNODC representative in El Salvador; Christian Aparicio, National Director of Higher Education; and Luz Elena Núñez, Rector of IDG. Other attendees included Henry Mejía, President of the Supreme Court of Justice, members of the Legislative Assembly, and diplomats accredited in El Salvador.

This initiative underscores El Salvador’s dedication to global anti-corruption efforts and its commitment to fostering transparency and accountability in governance.