In a new report, the Council of Europe's Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) calls on Liechtenstein to take further steps to prevent corruption among persons with top executive functions (PTEFs), including members of government, the Government Secretary, Secretaries General and Senior Political Advisors, as well as members of the National Police. The report also covers the Reigning Prince, who contributes to executive decision-making under the Constitution.
In its evaluation report, GRECO calls for the adoption of a co-ordinated strategy to promote integrity among PTEFs, developed on the basis of a comprehensive risk assessment. It further advises that the Working Group on Corruption Prevention -established in 2003 - operate with an increased transparency and issue regular public reports on its activities.
Although the right to access public documents is guaranteed by law, GRECO found that there are both legislative and practical shortcomings in the access to information framework that call for a comprehensive review of the Information Act. Furthermore, clear rules should be adopted concerning the procedure for public consultations in respect of draft legislation originating from the government.
GRECO reiterates its long-standing concern regarding the Prince's powers to block or discontinue criminal proceedings in respect of persons with top executive functions suspected of having committed corruption related offences and recommends. It considers these powers a potential threat to the independence and impartiality of the criminal justice system and recommends that they be revised. To enhance transparency, GRECO recommends publishing information on meetings between the Prince and the Prime Minister.
The implementation of the 20 recommendations addressed to Liechtenstein will be assessed by GRECO in 2027 through its compliance procedure.
