Financial Crime World

EU Urges Bulgaria to Reform Corruption-Fighting Agencies Amid Controversy

Background

The European Commission has expressed concerns over the recent appointments and dismissals within Bulgaria’s anti-corruption bodies, citing worries about the independence and effectiveness of these agencies in tackling corruption. The controversy surrounding the appointment of a controversial MP as head of the State Agency for National Security (SANS) has sparked concerns about the agency’s ability to investigate and prosecute corruption cases.

Recent Controversies

  • The recent appointment of a controversial MP as head of SANS has raised concerns about the agency’s independence and effectiveness in tackling corruption.
  • The Centre for Prevention and Countering Corruption and Organised Crime has seen its head dismissed for insufficient results and its deputy head removed without explanation.
  • A report by the Centre for the Study of Democracy noted “a significant weakening of the state’s capacity to counter organized crime, corruption, and the grey economy” due to sudden personnel changes within law enforcement agencies.

Commission’s Concerns

The European Commission has raised concerns over:

  • The lack of progress in investigating and prosecuting corruption cases
  • The need for reforms within Bulgaria’s judiciary, citing weaknesses in investigative and judicial practice that have hindered progress in prosecuting high-level corruption cases
  • The effectiveness of the Law on the Forfeiture of Illegally Acquired Assets, which depends on cooperation with prosecutors and administrative control authorities, as well as consistent judicial interpretation regarding the burden of proof

Response to Concerns

In response to the Commission’s concerns, Bulgarian authorities have:

  • Withdrawn the controversial appointee from SANS and replaced him with a new head
  • Announced plans to work together with inspectors from other agencies in investigating cases

Timeline

  • January 2013: Centre for Prevention and Countering Corruption and Organised Crime presents software (BORKOR) developed to identify corruption risks.
  • July 2013: Prosecutors charge chair of Commission for Prevention and Ascertainment of Conflict of Interest with abuse of office on the basis of evidence of corruption.
  • September 2013: Commission for Forfeiture of Illegally Acquired Assets announces plans to work together with inspectors from other agencies in investigating cases.

Sources

  • European Commission
  • Centre for the Study of Democracy
  • Bulgarian government agencies