#Hong Kong #ICAC #UNODC #Coding4Integrity #Cyberport

Coding4Integrity Hackathon: A Milestone in the Fight Against Corruption

The first-ever Coding4Integrity Hackathon concluded on September 19, 2025, at Cyberport, Hong Kong, drawing considerable attention from the global community focused on anti-corruption efforts. This premier event was co-hosted by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities (IAACA), marking a significant collaborative effort aimed at leveraging the innovative prowess of youth from across Asia.

The hackathon brought together over 250 participants representing 14 different countries, including Brunei, Georgia, Hong Kong SAR, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Macao SAR, Malaysia, Maldives, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Uzbekistan. This diverse gathering of bright minds showcased a variety of backgrounds, united in their commitment to developing digital tools and solutions targeted at preventing corruption. The five-day event included a series of workshops, mentoring sessions, and networking opportunities, allowing participants to not only devise innovative projects but also collaborate with industry professionals and anti-corruption advocates.

A Technological Approach to Integrity

Mr. Woo Ying-ming, the ICAC Commissioner, emphasized the importance of integrating integrity into the very systems that underpin present-day societies. “In the digital age, we need to build corruption prevention measures into our technological frameworks,” he stated. The Hackathon served as more than just a competitive event; it was a platform for showcasing how technology can be harnessed to foster accountability, transparency, and integrity within governance.

The culmination of the event was marked by an impressive pitch session where teams presented their solutions before a distinguished panel of judges from ICAC, UNODC, and other prominent organizations within the realm of digital policy and technology. The innovation on display was remarkable, and the solutions crafted by the participants will be shared with anti-corruption agencies throughout Asia, fostering a ripple effect of positive change and increased integrity practices.

Recognizing Excellence

After intensive evaluations, a three-member team from Macao SAR clinched the championship title, earning recognition from a professional judging panel comprising experts from various notable organizations. Their project, which focused on using technology for integrity in procurement processes, showcases how collaborative efforts can lead to impactful solutions in anti-corruption. The winning team has been invited to present their work at the upcoming 11th session of the Conference of the States Parties to the United Nations Convention Against Corruption, scheduled to be held in Doha, Qatar, in December. This presents a tremendous opportunity for the participants to gain international exposure and to further advocate for integrity measures.

Besides the championship, the Hackathon featured a 'Friend of Hong Kong' award, which was awarded to the Macao team opened to votes by the audience, showcasing the event's inclusive spirit and engagement from all attendees.

On top of pitching their innovative ideas, participants also embarked on a series of insightful visits to local corporations and technology enterprises, enhancing their understanding of modern compliance and innovation cultures that thrive in the Greater Bay Area. These experiences enriched their learning journey and exemplified how local efforts can contribute to a more extensive regional anti-corruption framework.

Furthermore, the event underlined the importance of international collaboration. With representatives from various countries, the event fostered cross-cultural exchanges, reminding everyone that the fight against corruption transcends borders and requires collective global action.

The Road Ahead

Looking ahead, the ICAC is committed to continuing these collaborative efforts, building on the insights and innovations presented at the hackathon. By fostering youth engagement and championing digital solutions to tackle corruption, the initiative aims to inspire next-generation leaders in the battle against graft. The integration of technology into anti-corruption strategies promises new avenues for accountability and ethical governance, reinforcing the belief that with the right tools and collaborative efforts, integrity is achievable.

In conclusion, the Coding4Integrity Hackathon successfully highlighted the vital role of youth in the fight against corruption, showcasing that through innovation, collaboration, and technology, meaningful change is possible. As the participants return to their respective countries, they carry with them not just accolades and recognition, but also a shared commitment to advancing integrity globally.