On the way to integration into the European Union, Ukraine faces a double challenge: a long war and the need to carry out deep structural reforms, in particular, in the field of fighting corruption. Despite these difficulties, the country has achieved considerable success, receiving praise and recognition from the EU.

The European Commission recognized Ukraine’s efforts in the fight against bribery, noting that more than 90% of the conditions necessary for the start of official negotiations on EU membership have been fulfilled. This progress is particularly commendable given the ongoing conflict and the complex nature of the reforms required.

Achievement despite trials

Vice President of the European Commission Vira Yurova emphasized the importance of “good laws, strong institutions and the right people doing their jobs” in the fight against corruption in Ukraine. This opinion was supported by President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, who undertook to implement all EU recommendations before the bloc’s December summit. Including:

• guarantees of minority rights;
• respect for fundamental freedoms, the rule of law;
• strengthening of anti-corruption bodies.

In addition, the support of the European Union played an important role in Ukraine’s fight against high-ranking corruption. The EU has supported the introduction of a transparent system of electronic declaration of assets, which requires officials and politicians to disclose information about their private wealth. This system is part of the broader anti-corruption architecture currently in place in Ukraine and has already produced tangible results, such as prison sentences for corrupt officials. However, more results are needed as powerful stakeholders continue to resist reform efforts.

Today in Ukraine, the government continues to implement an ambitious anti-corruption policy, strengthening the integrity of state institutions. These efforts are vital to meeting EU membership requirements and are being carried out even as the country struggles for national survival amid an unprovoked war against Russia.