Good governance of the security sector is an essential foundation for sustainable development. The security sector, comprising actors responsible for security provision, management, and oversight, is fundamental in creating conditions for peace, justice, and strong institutions, aligning with the objectives of the 2030 Agenda, Pact for the Future, and regional frameworks such as the African Union Agenda 2063. However, security institutions themselves are often vulnerable to corruption, exacerbating conflict and hindering sustainable peace and development.

Despite the G20’s recognition of corruption’s adverse effects on economic growth and governance, its Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) has largely overlooked corruption within security institutions. Key risks include lack of transparency, weak oversight, procurement fraud, bribery, criminal infiltration, and abuse of power. These challenges are heightened by geopolitical shifts, rising global defence spending, climate-related security responses, and gender-specific vulnerabilities. Corruption in the security sector not only threatens national and international stability but also undermines global debt relief efforts by diverting public funds away from development and humanitarian needs, weakening their impact and hindering economic recovery.

To address these risks, the G20 and its members must reinforce oversight and strengthen integrity in the security sector in line with the Tshwane Principles, which balance national security with the public’s right to information and responsible oversight. The G20 ACWG should launch a dedicated initiative to counter corruption in security institutions by leveraging best practices and developing high-level principles. This effort should include an analytical report on security sector oversight, a ‘Model Act’ for parliamentary oversight in collaboration with the Inter-Parliamentary Union, and enhanced engagement with existing oversight platforms to strengthen anti-corruption measures.

Governments of the G20 should conduct corruption risk assessments in the security sector to identify vulnerabilities and institutionalise anti-corruption efforts. Enhancing oversight by legislative and independent bodies is also essential. Investing in parliamentary capacity and data-driven monitoring platforms will enhance transparency and accountability in defence and security spending, reducing corruption risks.