According to the “Corruption Perceptions Index 2023” study, published by the international anti-corruption organization Transparency International, Ukraine scored 36 points and ranked 104th among 180 countries in the world. The results of this study are already available on the organization’s official website.
It is highlighted that over the past year Ukraine has improved its position, gaining three points, which is one of the best indicators in the world. It is noted that after the Revolution of Dignity the country gained 11 points, which is the largest increase among candidate countries to the European Union.
While Ukraine is noted for positive trends, it remains lagging behind the EU average, where the average score is 64. Denmark has the highest score – 90 points, while Hungary has the lowest – 42 points.
Transparency International recommends three key steps for Ukraine to improve its fight against corruption and rebuild the country in 2024:
— Increase the effectiveness of the fight against top corruption. Increase the capacity and conduct objective competitive selection of employees of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, prosecutors of the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office and judges of the High Anti-Corruption Court. Initiate the reform of the forensic service to ensure timely and unwavering access to forensic expertise. Eliminate contradictions in criminal legislation and ensure consideration of cases within reasonable time limits.
— Effectively use the assets of corrupt officials and Russian accomplices for the needs of the state. Change the procedures for selecting management and conduct an independent audit of ARMA's activities. Improve confiscation mechanisms and the legal framework for the return of assets, bringing them into line with international standards. Improve the processes of blocking Russian assets (as a sanction preceding confiscation) and introduce criminalization of sanctions evasion.
— Begin the reform of the Accounting Chamber and the State Audit Service of Ukraine. Develop and adopt a draft law on the reform of the Accounting Chamber and update the procedure for selecting its leadership and members. Prior to the reform of the legislation, the selection and appointment to positions in the Accounting Chamber should be suspended. Shift the focus of the State Audit Service’s public procurement monitoring to prevention. It is necessary to conduct monitoring and identify significant violations before concluding a contract in order to prevent losses and other negative consequences.
