To mark International Anti-Corruption Day, held every year on 9 December, the President of the Group of States against Corruption of the Council of Europe (GRECO), Marin Mrčela, has issued the following statement:
"Corruption is at the core of many of the challenges democracies face today, from the undermining of democratic institutions to injustices and inequalities.
"In May 2023, the heads of state and government of the 46 Council of Europe member states adopted the Reykjavik Principles for Democracy Declaration committing to secure and strengthen democracy and good governance at all levels in Europe, including by pursuing a relentless fight against corruption, including through prevention, and by holding accountable those exercising public power.
"Against the risk of democratic backsliding, it is crucial that governments prove their commitment and show political will by adopting robust anti-corruption legislation and taking determined action against corrupt practices in all spheres of public life. Effective anti-corruption efforts will help restore the trust deficit that exists between institutions, politicians, officials and citizens. Anti-corruption progress is essential to safeguard democracy and the rule of law.
"Looking ahead, we need to tackle corruption's impact on the next generations and make youth aware of what is at stake; otherwise, today's youth will continue to suffer in the future from the damage corruption causes today on our freedoms and prosperity.
"We need to build a society of free individuals guided by integrity principles. We need to involve youth in democratic engagement and anti-corruption efforts.
"Transparency and accountability of those exercising power must be pillars of anti-corruption action. GRECO aims to make a difference by helping states to create a culture of transparency, eliminate opportunities for corruption by closing off loopholes through solid anti-corruption and integrity frameworks, and punish perpetrators.
"In 2025, GRECO will launch a new evaluation round - the 6th - focusing on preventing corruption and promoting integrity in local and regional authorities, the closest to citizens' everyday lives. We will support local and regional governments across Europe, the United States of America and Kazakhstan in sharpening their tools to combat corrupt practices. They should show zero tolerance for corruption".
