Zhytomyr is one of the oldest cities in Ukraine, with a long history and a modern rhythm of life. With the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Zhytomyr, like all Ukrainian cities, has adjusted to life on “military rails.”
Despite reducing the local budget, regular rocket attacks, and a massive population departure from the city, Zhytomyr continues to develop dynamically, moving towards transparency and openness.
The EU Anti-Corruption Initiative started cooperating with Zhytomyr in 2018. At that time, a memorandum of understanding was signed, which demonstrates the city’s willingness to work towards combating corruption and increasing transparency, accountability, and integrity.
The five years of cooperation between the Zhytomyr City Council and the EUACI have yielded fruitful results. The City Council has implemented 9 modules of the Geographic Information System, completed 100% of all measures outlined in the Municipal Integrity Plan for 2020-2022, and launched an e-reception hall.
This year’s research by the Chesno Movement showed that Zhytomyr is one of the most transparent cities in Ukraine, a testament to the City Council’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability. Zhytomyr City Council was included in the list of councils that had 10 or 10.5 points and improved their score to the maximum.
Over the next year, the EU Anti-Corruption Initiative and the city authorities will focus on the following areas:
▪️ Strengthening the capacity to assess corruption risks and implement tasks outlined in the Municipal Integrity Plan.
▪️ Ensuring the sustainable functioning of IT tools.
▪️ Strengthening the capacity to perform internal audits, controls, and corruption prevention functions.
▪️ Improving public procurement practices.
The concept and image of Zhytomyr as a City of Integrity is a good sign for international partners. Therefore, the city is ready for further cooperation with the EU Anti-Corruption Initiative – active fight against corruption risks, transparent and accountable governance.
For more information on the joint work of the EU Anti-Corruption Initiative and Zhytomyr, please see the News section or the official platforms of the city council.
