Corruption scandal proves Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies work – European Commission
European Commission spokesperson Guillaume Mercier has said that recent investigations into corruption and the exposure of schemes involving senior officials have proved that Ukraine's anti-corruption bodies are functioning.
Source: Guillaume Mercier during a press briefing on 13 November, as reported by a European Pravda journalist in Brussels
Details: The European Commission said the exposure of corrupt officials indicates that Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions are working.
Quote: "This investigation shows that anti-corruption bodies are in place and functioning in Ukraine."
More details: Mercier added that "the fight against corruption has been central to our enlargement package".
Quote: "The fight against corruption is key for a country to join the EU. It requires continuous efforts to guarantee a strong capacity to combat corruption and the respect for the rule of law."
More details: He also said that the role of the independent anti-corruption bodies – a cornerstone of the rule of law in Ukraine as a future EU member state – must be safeguarded.
Quote: "The Commission will continue to monitor the situation."
Background:
- On the morning of 12 November, Ukrainian Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced that Herman Halushchenko had been suspended as justice minister following a high-profile investigation into corruption at Energoatom, Ukraine's state nuclear energy company.
- Danish Economy Minister Stephanie Lose said earlier that the EU continues to stand firmly with Ukraine amid the energy-sector scandal and reminded Kyiv of the need to press on with reforms.
- European Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos said that corruption is widespread across Europe and what matters is how states respond. She expressed confidence in Ukraine's work to combat corruption with EU support.
- Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó said the European Union should stop "sending European citizens' money to Ukraine" following the latest corruption scandal.
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