European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos held a meeting with representatives of Ukraine’s key anti-corruption institutions – the National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP), the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO), and the High Anti-Corruption Court (HACC). During the discussion, the parties emphasized the importance of further reforms in the field of the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts.
“Ukraine’s path to the European Union is based on a strong rule of law. A strong Ukraine needs strong and independent anti-corruption institutions. They are the foundation of any democracy that works for the benefit of its citizens,” said Marta Kos.
Head of the NACP Viktor Pavlushchyk stressed that for the National Agency, it is fundamentally important to maintain political neutrality and avoid any preferences for political or economic groups. This is especially important given the NACP’s powers in monitoring the finances of political parties and election campaigns. The Agency works to uphold the rule of law, ensure transparency of processes, and promote constructive cooperation.
He underlined that, in light of recent developments, any legislative initiatives in the field of anti-corruption policy must be considered strictly in compliance with procedures of transparency and consultation, in accordance with the recommendations of the Group of States against Corruption (GRECO). This applies in particular to draft laws that affect the activities of bodies responsible for preventing and combating corruption.
“In addition, I believe it is appropriate to establish in law the requirement for the NACP’s mandatory position on all draft laws related to the functioning of anti-corruption institutions, as an additional safeguard to prevent and mitigate risks of political or other undue influence,” noted Viktor Pavlushchyk.
The Head of the NACP thanked the European Union for providing international technical assistance, which ensures the development and independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption bodies, and informed the meeting participants about the preparation of Ukraine’s new Anti-Corruption Strategy until 2030. He emphasized the important role of international partners, particularly the European Commission, in supporting reforms in Ukraine.
It should be recalled that Marta Kos visited Ukraine on a three-day mission, during which she announced the completion of the screening process for Ukraine’s accession to the EU.
