On the International Anti-Corruption Day, the EU Anti-Corruption Initiative in Ukraine (EUACI) celebrates the efforts of the specialized anti-corruption agencies in Ukraine. With the creation of NABU, SAPO and HACC an effective and independent prosecution of corrupt officials became reality in Ukraine. Introduction of an e-declaration system provided for an unprecedented level of transparency in the public sector and the reboot of NACP led to an enhanced effort in preventing corruption. However, lately the successful development of a functioning anti-corruption infrastructure is challenged and under pressure. These are difficult times for those working in the anti-corruption field in Ukraine.
In this political environment, the EUACI takes off in a new and expanded Phase II and with a new structure. Denmark continues to co-finance and implement the program on behalf of the EU.
Since 2017, the EUACI has played a pivotal role in ensuring sustainable institutional development of anti-corruption institutions, including in the creation and operational development of the High Anti-Corruption Court of Ukraine. The EUACI is behind developments such as an e-case management system for anti-corruption institutions (NABU, SAPO and HACC), modules for sales and leasing of state and communal property by the successful organization ProZorro, geographical information systems for local municipalities and open budgets for schools. EUACI assistance provided to civil society organizations and investigative journalists have enhanced their capacities to play an essential role in the anti-corruption efforts. These are some of the many activities supported by the EUACI that have contributed to paving the way for transformational changes in the fight against corruption in Ukraine.
Now more than ever, the anti-corruption Infrastructure of Ukraine and the civil society and journalists in the anti-corruption field need support. The EUACI stands ready to continue to provide technical assistance and support to its partners, critical for the sustainability of the achieved results as well as for the accomplishment of even more ambitious goals in the future.
