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Cyprus: A Country Committed to Eradicating Bribery and Corruption
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Cyprus has made significant strides in combating bribery and corruption, demonstrating its commitment to securing substantial contracts. Recent developments in the country’s judicial system have led to the prosecution of several high-ranking officials accused of accepting bribes from private contractors.
Prosecution of High-Ranking Officials
According to an indictment, two former town councillors are alleged to have received €400,000 in bribes from private contractors associated with the Paphos sewerage system. Another former town councillor is accused of having been bribed with €110,000. A former Paphos mayor and a former PSB director have already been sentenced to six years in prison after confessing to having abused their power and taken bribes from contractors vying for PSB contracts.
Robust Legislation
Cyprus has implemented robust legislation to prevent bribery and corruption. Article 4 of Law No. 23(III) of 2000 transposes article 12 of the Criminal Law Convention on Corruption, making it a criminal offence to promise, give or offer any undue advantage to anyone who asserts or confirms that they are able to exert an improper influence over the decision-making process.
- Article 105A of the Criminal Code provides that any person who attempts to influence any authority, committee, collective body or public official in the course of their duties related to any procedure is guilty of a criminal offence punishable by imprisonment for up to 12 months, a fine of up to €1,700 or both.
Enhancing Investigation and Enforcement Procedures
The Cyprus judicial process has undergone little modernization in recent years, but efforts are underway to enhance investigation, decision-making and enforcement procedures. The country’s civil law remedies against corruption are also available, although they have rarely been used.
Whistleblowers
Whistleblowers play a crucial role in reporting corruption, but there is currently no specific law protecting them. However, provisions regarding whistleblowers are spread across other legislation, including Article 369 of the Criminal Code and Article 69A of the Civil Servants Law.
International Cooperation
Cyprus has also taken steps to cooperate with international organizations in combating corruption. The country offers international cooperation through formal rogatory letters, Interpol and financial intelligence units such as MOKAS.
Conclusion
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In conclusion, Cyprus’s commitment to eradicating bribery and corruption is evident in its robust legislation and ongoing efforts to enhance investigation, decision-making and enforcement procedures. As the country looks to secure substantial contracts, it is clear that transparency and accountability are top priorities.
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