Croatia Takes a Crucial Step Towards Fighting Corruption with Compliance
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Croatia has taken a significant step towards eradicating corruption by implementing compliance guidelines for its government entities and public companies. This development is expected to enhance transparency and accountability, ultimately leading to a more corruption-free society.
The Importance of Compliance in Preventing Corruption
A conference was held with high-ranking officials from the Croatian Government, GRECO (Group of States against corruption), and international organizations, emphasizing the importance of compliance in preventing corruption. Damir Zorić, CEO of the Croatian Employers’ Association, expressed hope that compliance will become an increasingly important instrument in Croatia as soon as possible.
GRECO’s Efforts to Combat Corruption
Marin Mrčela, President of GRECO, highlighted the organization’s efforts to ensure harmonization and effective implementation of international anti-corruption standards among its 50 member states. He emphasized the importance of integrity in public sector institutions, stating that people with honesty and integrity are crucial in maintaining high standards and preventing corruption.
Croatia’s New National Anti-Corruption Strategy
Ivan Crnčec, Assistant Minister at the Ministry of Justice and Administration, welcomed the development of a new National Anti-Corruption Strategy for the 2021-2030 period. The strategy includes mechanisms to combat corruption in companies, such as an anti-corruption program for state-owned companies and the drafting of an Act on the Protection of Reporters of Irregularities.
Why Compliance is Important
The implementation of compliance guidelines in Croatia is crucial for several reasons:
- Transparency: Compliance ensures that government entities and public companies operate transparently, making it easier to track financial transactions and identify potential irregularities.
- Accountability: By implementing compliance guidelines, those responsible for corruption can be held accountable, reducing the risk of corrupt practices.
- Economic growth: A corruption-free society attracts foreign investment, boosting economic growth and development.
The Way Forward
To ensure the success of this initiative, it is essential that:
- Guidelines are widely accepted: Compliance guidelines must be accepted by all relevant parties, including government entities and public companies.
- Political will is maintained: The government must demonstrate a strong commitment to implementing these guidelines, ensuring that there is no backtracking or lack of enforcement.
- Monitoring and evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of compliance should be carried out to identify areas for improvement and ensure that the system is effective.
In conclusion, Croatia’s move towards implementing compliance guidelines is a significant step towards eradicating corruption and promoting transparency and accountability in public life. It is crucial that these guidelines are widely accepted, political will is maintained, and monitoring and evaluation are carried out regularly to ensure their success.