Ukraine's progress in combating corruption reflects the increased effectiveness of anti-corruption agencies, as noted by international organizations. According to the Corruption Perceptions Index by Transparency International in 2023, Ukraine showed one of the best dynamics in the world, rising from 116th to 104th place. This is the country's best result ever.

The effective work done by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau last year provides grounds for optimism. However, new challenges arise for the Bureau - both internal and external - which will determine the success of its work next year. The way our team handles these challenges will shape not only the future of the agency but also the entire Ukrainian society.

INTERNAL CHALLENGES

The expansion of NABU's staff, the strengthening of public oversight of top-level corruption investigations, and the full implementation of the electronic case management system are among the priorities.

In 2024, NABU's staff will expand by a hundred people following the Law on Strengthening the Institutional Capacity of the Bureau, adopted by the Verkhovna Rada in December last year. Such an increase is a challenging task for any organization. The goal is to conduct an open and transparent competition, integrate new employees, and instill the Bureau's DNA in them while preventing any loss in the quality of work.

Media and public attention will increase in proportion to the growing number of staff. The Bureau team must live up to public expectations and intensify the fight against injustice.

Continuing digitalization of criminal proceedings in 2024 is also a priority for the Bureau. NABU has launched and successfully implemented the eCase system, aimed at expediting the criminal process and minimizing the risks of human error. Its development and expansion are amid next year's plans.

EXTERNAL CHALLENGES

Continuing the Eurointegration process, strengthening NABU's institutional capacity, and adapting the judicial system to new challenges are the focal points.

Ukraine continues its path towards the European Union. The candidate status for EU membership, granted to Ukraine over two years ago, means that only the final stretch remains and the "homework" must be completed. The anti-corruption component is a cornerstone of Ukraine's EU accession, so NABU must do its utmost to contribute to the successful completion of Eurointegration. It's not just about meeting formal requirements but about instilling zero tolerance for corruption in society.

The increase in NABU's staff will undoubtedly strengthen the Bureau's institutional work, but additional steps are needed to multiply the results. The Bureau urgently needs to exercise its right to independently obtain information from telecommunications networks (wiretapping). The launch of an independent forensic unit within NABU is another pressing issue.

There is also a need for a complete repeal of the so-called "Lozovyi amendments." This issue has long been ripe and requires swift legislative resolution. Before joining the European Union, Ukraine must have a genuinely competitive judicial process where parties operate on facts rather than procedural inaccuracies and legislative loopholes.