Conflict of Interest and the Netherlands
The latest GRECO review highlights the ongoing concerns that exist within government, which is conflict of interest. As has been seen across many countries, conflict of interest creates undue influences in government. In this report “[t]he Netherlands has yet to adopt a dedicated integrity policy that targets areas where risks of conflicts of interest and corruption appear particularly challenging, and which applies to all persons with top executive functions.” What this means is that senior officials could make decisions which are tied to their interests, not for the benefit of their government.
What needs to be done in this instance? As GRECO notes additional legislation, focusing on integrity is important. What also is significant when addressing conflict of interest, are the softer elements of prevention. This should include publicizing potential conflicts by senior officials, allowing public access to information regarding such potential conflicts. Additionally, clear penalties in the event of conflicts, remind governmental officials that conflicts have an outsize impact and need to be taken seriously. Making certain that we continue focusing on conflicts is important for all governments, big or small.
Link: