Ukraine and Poland – increasing anti-corruption cooperation
The National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP) has reported that NACP and the Central Anti-Corruption Bureau of the Republic of Poland (CBA) have signed a Memorandum of cooperation. This will include “exchange of information within the scope of competence, the organisation of joint training events, the implementation of educational initiatives, the exchange of experts, and the development of tools and programmes aimed at improving the effectiveness of anti-corruption measures.” These types of cooperation activities are sometimes viewed as a bit of window dressing, but this agreement is an additional opportunity for both groups to network and make linkages, which are of ongoing importance. It also provides NACP with an opportunity to work closely with Poland, an EU country, which is more positive step regarding Ukraine’s accession hopes.
What more needs to be done? What is essential is that whatever cooperative work occurs, it should be highlighted and publicized. Poland’s CBA has been quite transparent, and this provides NACP with more information and support to move closer to more open and transparent governmental institutions. Additionally, closer relationships with EU countries is of greater importance during this time. This provides both encouragement and reassurance about Ukraine’s movement towards the EU, showing that bilateral anti-corruption affiliations can be developed. This is one more positive step being taken by Ukraine, as it highlights its’ EU accession aspirations, and it is a good signal internationally.
Link: