NABU: Institutional Development, Digitalization, and Engagement with Society

During the reporting period, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) continued to strengthen its institutional capacity, expand international cooperation, and actively involve the public in shaping a new anti-corruption culture. The focus of its activities included digital transformation of investigations, engagement of veterans in service, development of youth initiatives, and partnerships with international partners and anti-corruption bodies in other countries.

International Cooperation

NABU maintained close cooperation with international partners throughout the reporting period. During meetings with the ambassadors of the G7 and the EU, support for the independence of Ukraine’s anti-corruption institutions was reaffirmed. An important area of focus has also been cooperation with the Basel Institute and UNODC to enhance detectives' capacity to conduct financial investigations. The Bureau played a key role in preparing the application for accession to the OECD Anti-Bribery Convention, which the government officially submitted in February this year. In March, the NABU leadership participated in the Global Anti-Corruption & Integrity Forum (GASIF), where ways to tackle Ukraine’s anti-corruption challenges across the public and private sectors were discussed.

“eCase”: Digital Transformation of the Anti-Corruption Process

The “eCase” electronic criminal procedure system has become a key tool in optimizing the work of NABU, SAPO, and HACC. To date, more than 1,800 criminal proceedings and nearly 3,500 electronic motions submitted to court have been registered in the system.

Thanks to integration with the Unified Register of Pre-Trial Investigations and judicial information systems, eCase has significantly reduced the time required to prepare documents, eliminated the duplication of paper processes, and enhanced transparency. As of April, lawyers were granted remote access to motions, greatly improving communication between parties. By the end of the year, the system is expected to be expanded to include a sub-system for the registration of physical evidence and an increase in the number of procedural document templates to 70.

Veteran Policy: From Defending the Country to Defending Justice

NABU continues its policy of engaging veterans in its team, recognizing their experience and values as a powerful resource in the fight against corruption. In January 2025, a public discussion titled “Choosing the Future” was held in cooperation with EUACI, SAPO, NACP, HACC, and veterans' organizations. Participants explored employment opportunities within anti-corruption agencies and discussed ways to integrate veterans into the law enforcement sphere.

A special training session was held for NABU selection commission members on ethical interaction with veterans, organized with the support of the Vesta Charitable Foundation. This was the first in a series of training programs designed to ensure sensitive and responsible approach to veterans’ needs during their employment process.

Student Engagement: A New Generation of Anti-Corruption Leaders

NABU is actively developing educational projects for young people. The online investigative game “NABU Investigates 2,” developed in collaboration with the EdEra studio and supported by EUACI, allows participants to go through all stages of an anti-corruption investigation — from evidence gathering to preparing an indictment. The game format immerses students in the real-life work of detectives and helps them better understand the mechanisms for exposing corruption schemes.

In addition, a pilot project titled “Ctrl+Cправедливість” (“Ctrl+C for Justice”) was launched — a new space for youth who seek to change societal norms. During the event, detectives and experts shared practical experience and discussed the role of the younger generation in transforming anti-corruption culture.

The year 2025 has become a year of systemic development, demonstrated effectiveness, and expanded partnerships for NABU. From successful international evaluations and the implementation of digital tools to work with veterans and students, the National Bureau is confidently building a resilient anti-corruption ecosystem aimed at strengthening public trust and the rule of law.