Press release GRECO DC038 (2014)
Strasbourg, April 1, 2014 – according to the latest report of the Council of Europe Group Against Corruption (GRECO) in Ukraine, significant progress has been made in combating and preventing corruption. Of the twenty-five recommendations developed by GRECO for Ukraine, sixteen recommendations have already been implemented or are in the stage with an expected positive result.
GRECO welcomes the legislative changes that treat bribes as offenses under the Criminal Code, as well as the treatment of corruption as a criminal offense, following the criminal justice system. The Criminal Code of Ukraine introduced the liability of legal entities.
The state will also apply modern regulation regarding the confiscation and size of the crime. These measures will bring Ukraine’s criminal law in line with European standards and expand the country’s ability to effectively fight corruption.
Nevertheless, further action is required in many areas. The regulatory framework for the Prosecutor General, the State Service, as well as procedures for reforming the civil service and transparent procurement of goods and services have not yet been developed.
Most importantly, GRECO notes its concern about the independence of the National Anti-Corruption Committee and the representation of civil society in it.
GRECO calls on the Ukrainian authorities to take firm action and implement these recommendations.
For contacts:
Jeremy Moax, PR Department,
Tel. +33 3 90 21 50 52
Council of Europe Communications Office
Tel: +33 (0) 3 88 41 25 60
Fax: +33 (0) 3 88 41 39 11
Pressunit@coe.int
