The European Commission has highlighted that Ukraine has made only limited progress in the fight against corruption, according to its latest report on candidate countries for EU membership, presented last week. Recent investigations in Kyiv, which led to the resignation of two ministers, underscore ongoing challenges that could endanger Ukraine’s accession process.
During yesterday’s Eurogroup meeting, where financing for Ukraine’s resistance over the next two years was discussed, member state economy ministers repeatedly raised concerns about corruption in Ukraine.
Financial and Governance Concerns
Beyond the legal hurdles in using frozen Russian assets, doubts have arisen about how the planned €200 billion in funds will be managed to ensure Ukraine’s security while preventing excessive expenditures by the EU. This uncertainty, highlighted in the EU’s latest enlargement report, has sparked concern in several European capitals, especially Berlin.
The report notes a “tendency toward stagnation”, pointing out that in July, the Ukrainian Parliament passed a law that removed key guarantees for the independence of anti-corruption institutions. Although independence was later restored after domestic protests and strong international reactions, challenges remain.
Rising Pressures and Recommendations
The Commission notes that civil society and institutions in Ukraine report increasing pressure from state offices, raising doubts about Ukraine’s commitment to a decisive anti-corruption agenda.
The European Commission urges Kyiv to:
- Preserve the independence of anti-corruption institutions
- Expand their jurisdiction
- Implement strong protective measures against parliamentary interference
- Strengthen asset confiscation from corruption, especially at high levels of power
Additionally, the report recommends reforming the criminal procedure code and increasing the number of judges and administrative staff at the High Anti-Corruption Court.
“The fight against corruption is a crucial element for any country’s EU accession,” a European Commission spokesperson emphasized. “It requires continuous efforts to ensure strong capacities and full respect for the rule of law.”
The EU report positions Ukraine’s “Mani Pulite” (Clean Hands) initiative as a central topic in the ongoing debate in Brussels about Kyiv’s European future.
