More harmonised anti-corruption rules took effect across the EU yesterday under a new directive introducing modern rules to better prevent, detect and sanction corruption across the EU.
The new rules will help to protect public trust, democratic institutions and the rule of law, according to the European Commission while supporting competitiveness across the EU.
The new rules establish a more consistent EU-wide framework by harmonising the definition of corruption offences across Member States – including bribery, misappropriation, trading in influence, unlawful exercise of public functions, obstruction of justice and corruption-related enrichment. The Directive also sets minimum rules on criminal penalties for both individuals and companies.
To ensure that justice is served, the new rules introduce minimum rules on limitation periods to ensure sufficient time to investigate and prosecute corruption offences effectively. Member States must also guarantee that law enforcement and prosecutors have adequate investigative tools at their disposal and strengthen preventive measures, including through dedicated national anti-corruption strategies.
“Corruption is not a victimless crime. It drains public resources, distorts fair competition, and erodes citizens’ trust in democratic institutions”, said the Commissioner for the Rule of Law Michael McGrath: “With these new rules, we are strengthening our ability to prevent corruption, pursue those responsible more effectively, and ensure a more consistent approach across the EU. This is about protecting the integrity of our democracies and ensuring that public power is always exercised in the public interest.”
The fight against corruption has been a priority for the Commission, underlined in Political Guidelines for 2024-2029, and a central element of the EU’s broader efforts to protect democracy and uphold the rule of law. The Directive forms part of a broader anti-corruption agenda, alongside the EU Anti-Corruption Strategy, for which a public consultation and a call for evidence are open until 6 July.
