Reflections on the Winter School on Corruption and Anti-Corruption Efforts

The program brought together a remarkable mix of experts, practitioners, and academics, sparking thought-provoking discussions on corruption and exploring innovative ways to fight it. Seminars, led by thought leaders like Edris Arib, Rebai Azouz, and Prof. Dr. Heike Grimm, provided a deep dive into the complexities of anti-corruption efforts. We were also thrilled to welcome representatives from Transparency International, the Aspen Institute, the German Ministry for Development and Cooperation, and the German Institute for Compliance (DICO), who brought both academic insight and real-world expertise to the table.

A special shoutout to our stellar facilitators and speakers—Christoph Kowalewski, Niamatullah Sayer, Dr. Anna-Maija Mertens, Ilham Mohamed, and Dr. Marc Schattenmann—whose knowledge and passion elevated the experience for all involved. Their contributions were instrumental in making this event truly impactful.

The true magic of the Winter School lay in the participants themselves. Their intellectual curiosity and ability to engage critically with complex issues were nothing short of inspiring. The final presentations, where students showcased their deep analysis and creative thinking, proved just how much they had absorbed. The spirited discussions, real-world case studies, and challenging debates fostered an environment of intellectual growth that will have lasting effects on their careers and the fight against corruption.

We are incredibly grateful to our partners, speakers, and participants for their dedication to making this event a success. Together, we are building a stronger foundation for tackling corruption through research, policy, and practical action.