A meeting took place in Brussels between the leaders of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAP) with the EU Commissioner for Enlargement, Olivér Várhelyi. During the negotiations, the parties paid particular attention to the issue of the independence of anti-corruption institutions and outlined further steps to enhance the effectiveness of the fight against corruption in Ukraine.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Support from the European Union
Olivér Várhelyi emphasized the importance of NABU and SAP’s activities for Ukraine’s European integration and its recovery. He stressed that the independence of anti-corruption bodies is a fundamental condition for ensuring the rule of law and creating a favorable business climate in the country. The EU Commissioner confirmed full EU support for the work of Ukrainian anti-corruption bodies and highlighted their key role in Ukraine’s accession process to the European Union.
“Their fight against corruption is crucial for Ukraine’s accession to the EU and its recovery. I once again confirm my full support for their work: independent anti-corruption bodies are the foundation of the rule of law and a healthy business climate,” wrote Olivér Várhelyi on social media platform X.
Context of the Meetings and Legislative Changes
Before traveling to Brussels, the leaders of NABU and SAP were on a working visit to Paris, where they held a series of meetings with representatives of the French authorities. In particular, they discussed issues related to strengthening the institutional capacity of anti-corruption bodies, developing international cooperation in the fight against corruption, and increasing public trust in the results of their activities.
On July 22, the Verkhovna Rada adopted bill No. 12414, which, according to experts, could limit the independence of NABU and SAP. This sparked widespread protests among the public and concern from Ukraine’s international partners. In response, President Volodymyr Zelensky submitted a new bill to parliament aimed at expanding the powers of NABU and SAP. This document was supported by lawmakers and signed by the head of state, marking a step towards strengthening the country’s anti-corruption system.