In 2023, Ukraine intensified its endeavors to fight corruption on its path towards European integration. To commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day, celebrated globally on December 9, we encourage you to explore our latest newsletter issue. It provides our interactive visualization of the Anti-corruption Perception and Experience Poll, which offers insights into the regional and temporal variations in corruption perceptions and experiences. Be sure to check a retrospective on the key anti-corruption accomplishments of 2023 and endeavors of our partners dedicated to tackling corruption, ensuring transparency and civic oversight. Also, don’t miss out on our job and grant opportunities. Read on to stay informed!
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What encourages Ukrainians to combat corruption and what obstacles must they overcome? Our Anticorruption Perception and Experience Poll reveals that in 2023, 89% of citizens view corruption as a serious problem, a slight decrease from 94% in 2021. Our interactive visualization of this data also highlights the main motivators and barriers to anti-corruption engagement. Notably, 76% are driven by the belief that fighting corruption directly affects their or their families’ interests, with 74% emphasizing the importance of security guarantees and anonymity. Moreover, 73% are motivated by the conviction that addressing corruption can positively transform the country. Conversely, barriers include a lack of awareness about available anti-corruption measures (57%), fear of reprisal or physical coercion (60%), and distrust in authorities, including anti-corruption bodies (56%).
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Civil Society News
Transparency International Ukraine Reflects on Major Anti-Corruption Cases of 2023
In 2023, Ukrainians witnessed a number of high-profile anti-corruption investigations. In just six months, NABU and SAPO launched 286 investigations, issued 137 indictments, including against seven judges and eight lawmakers, resulting in the conviction of 39 people. Check out Transparency International Ukraine’s piece to recall some of the most noteworthy anti-corruption cases in 2023.
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Anti-Corruption Action Center Urges Reversal of Detrimental Amendments in Bill Reforming Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office
On December 8, the Verkhovna Rada passed a law that separates the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor’s Office (SAPO) into a distinct prosecution body. However, the Anti-Corruption Action Center emphasizes that the draft does not remove certain contentious provisions, known as the “Lozovyi-Ionushas amendments.” The CSO underscores the potential risk of these measures, enabling individuals involved in high-profile anti-corruption probes to evade accountability. The organization calls for the complete repeal of these amendments and has submitted a corresponding petition to the President of Ukraine.
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CHESNO Movement Examines Declarations of High-Ranking Officials for 2021-2022
On December 10, the National Agency on Corruption Prevention restored public access to the Declaration Registry, a long-standing demand from civil organizations, including partners of USAID/ENGAGE partners. Explore the infographic created by the CHESNO Movement to find out which representatives from the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, the Cabinet of Ministers, and the Office of the President submitted declarations for the years 2021-2022.
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Zaporizhzhia Investigation Center Shares Its Efforts Aimed at Tackling Corruption in the Region
Over the past three months, the Zaporizhzhia Investigation Center monitored budgets allocated for upcoming construction projects in schools and kindergartens. Their findings revealed significant overpricing – a 12% and 20% increase over the total cost, amounting to 12 and 17 million hryvnias for materials. Additionally, the CSO drew attention to high-profile investigations related to the embezzlement of humanitarian aid in the region and kept citizens informed about tender processes and reconstruction efforts. Read more by following the provided link.
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Opportunities
More Opportunities! Check an Updated Request for Applications
We are pleased to introduce our updated and enhanced Request for Applications for civil society initiatives. It provides expanded institutional and project support, contributing to increased citizen participation in democratic processes, strengthening confidence in civil society, and advancing Ukraine’s drive towards victory. We encourage you to review its terms and conditions, submit your applications, and join us in empowering civil society in Ukraine!
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Check Our Website for More Opportunities for Vendors and Job Seekers
We invite qualified vendors to visit our website’s procurement section to access the latest consultant requests for USAID/ENGAGE – https://bit.ly/3u391QK
Qualified specialists interested in our job openings are encouraged to review the listings – https://bit.ly/3UKgGN7
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What We Read
Mythology of Bribery: Is Corruption Truly the Main Problem for Ukraine on the Path to the EU
Over the past year, Ukraine fulfilled the 7 EU recommendations required to initiate accession negotiations. However, when asking citizens about Ukraine’s primary objectives, “fighting corruption” invariably emerges as a popular choice. The task originally ranked third on the EU list has evolved into an absolute priority in both public and media consciousness. The question arises: Is the situation genuinely critical, or are Ukrainians magnifying the issue beyond reality? Explore more in the article by Serhiy Sydenko, the editor of “European Truth.”
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