Sussex prepares Qatari graduates to understand what causes corruption and how to tackle it
The Prime Minister of Qatar has officially launched the University of Sussex Masters course in Corruption, Law and Governance, in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre (ROLACC).
Prof Andrew Sanders (second right) and Prof Dan Hough (far right) at the launch of the LLM in Qatar
Prof Michael Davies speaking in Doha at the launch of the University's LLM in Corruption
The programme aims at building capacity in fighting corruption through enabling graduates to recognise corruption in its many forms and what causes it, with the ultimate aim of fostering long-term change in the Gulf region.
The part-time, two-year Law masters will be taught by leading Sussex academics who specialise in this global and wide-reaching issue.
Dignitaries gathered in Qatar's capital city, Doha, to officially launch the course with the first cohort of students: professional graduates, academics, professionals working in both the public and private sectors, government and non-governmental organisations.
ROLACC is considered one of the most prominent organisations in the region and internationally in the promotion of the rule of law and combatting corruption.
The University of Sussex is known for its world-leading research and teaching in this area, especially within the Sussex Centre for the Study of Corruption, which is a research centre within the School of Law, Politics and Sociology (LPS).
His Excellency Dr Ali Bin Fetais Al Marri, the Qatari Attorney General, Chairman of the ROLACC Board of Trustees, said: “Qatar was founded by Jassim bin Mohammed on principles of justice and the rule of law. This approach was fostered by His Excellency Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim, who issued the permanent constitution of the state and established the separation of powers in the state. Then came His Excellency Sheikh Tamin bin Hamed, who declared reform, rule of law and fighting corruption as the objectives of his reign.”
Dr Ali then thanked His Excellency the Prime Minister for his support for this initiative, which, he stated, “proves His Excellency’s support for the effort, which is aimed at fighting corruption and the rule of law”.
The University’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and the institution’s executive group lead on international partnerships, Professor Michael Davies, said: “Having worked with organisations and governments around the world, our academic experts have been able to develop the most up-to-date and extensive experience in what causes corruption and how to tackle it.
“This will not only be of enormous benefit to the students on the course but the many organisations and countries in the region from which they come.
“ROLACC was launched with the aim of fighting corruption and partnering with them on this course is a powerful way to help bring about positive change in Qatar and the region.”
Professor of Politics and Director of the Sussex Centre for the Study of Corruption at the University of Sussex, Dan Hough, said: “We care passionately about tackling the disastrous impact that corruption can have on societies around the world. As one of the most significant public policy challenges on the planet, change won’t happen without a fundamental shift in understanding of the issue.
“This Masters course is the perfect vehicle for professionals across the Gulf region to gain in-depth knowledge of how the fight against corruption can be taken forward – not just now, but implementing long-term change.
“In order to do this there needs to be a major focus on educating a wide range of professionals, especially those in middle management, so that good anti-corruption practice, innovation and thought can permeate at different levels in business and government.”