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Bulgaria Urged to Step Up Anti-Corruption Efforts Ahead of OECD Membership

Sofia, Bulgaria - A recent report by the Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies (WIIW) has called on Bulgaria to strengthen its anti-corruption measures ahead of its forthcoming membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Key Areas for Improvement

The report highlights several key areas where Bulgaria needs to improve, including:

  • The work of the police and judiciary
  • Reforming the Anti-Corruption Commission
  • Enhancing transparency in the handling of public resources

Increased Scrutiny with OECD Membership

Bulgaria’s OECD membership will also bring increased scrutiny over its anti-corruption measures. The organization has developed a special report on Bulgaria, highlighting specific areas of concern, including:

  • Measures to prevent and detect foreign corruption
  • Law enforcement in international corruption offenses
  • International obligations

Implementing Recommendations Crucial

The report emphasizes that implementing these recommendations is crucial for Bulgaria, as they affect the country’s international reputation and confidence among foreign investors.

National Strategy to Prevent and Combat Corruption

Bulgaria’s National Strategy to Prevent and Combat Corruption 2021-2027 has been criticized for being too general and lacking specific actors or deadlines. The strategy aims to:

  • Strengthen anti-corruption institutions
  • Improve transparency and accountability
  • Counter corruption crimes

The Fight Against Corruption: A Complex Phenomenon

The fight against corruption is a complex phenomenon that affects both the public and private sectors in Bulgaria. It requires a comprehensive system of measures impacting the political sphere, economy, public administration, citizens’ behavior, and relations with external partners.

Bulgaria’s Historical Experience

Bulgaria’s historical experience shows that reducing corruption to an acceptable level is crucial for socio-economic and political development. The country’s bilateral relations with the United States are also affected by corruption issues, as highlighted in the US Integrated Country Strategy for Bulgaria.

Conclusion

The report concludes that Bulgaria must take concrete steps to improve its anti-corruption efforts if it wants to maintain a strong reputation and attract foreign investment.