Gibraltar Government Takes Major Step Forward in Fight Against Bribery and Corruption

The Government of Gibraltar has published a landmark Bill aimed at establishing an independent Anti-Corruption Authority for the territory, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to increasing public accountability and transparency.

Establishing the Anti-Corruption Authority

The six-part Bill sets out the authority’s composition, duties, powers, and functions, immunities and protections, conflict of interest provisions, confidentiality, and its ability to issue guidance and cooperate with other domestic authorities. The legislation will enable the authority to investigate any corrupt conduct listed in a Schedule to the Bill, including:

• Fraud by abuse of position
• Bribery
• Misconduct in public office
• Cheating the public revenue

Key Features of the Bill

• Investigations can be conducted regardless of whether the alleged corrupt act occurred before or after the law comes into effect.
• The authority will have the power to refer cases to the Royal Gibraltar Police, enabling a swift and effective response to allegations of corruption.
• Protection measures for individuals who assist the authority with investigations, including:
  • Employment protection
  • Provisions for offences where reports and investigations are not handled properly

Government Reaction

Minister for Justice Samantha Sacramento MP hailed the Bill as a major step forward in the Government’s efforts to increase transparency and accountability. “We have an excellent track record of implementing reforms to deliver more transparency and robust anti-corruption structures in public life,” she said.

Chief Minister Fabian Picardo KC MP emphasized that the publication of the Bill was part of a broader commitment to deep reform in public life, building on previous milestones such as:

• Introduction of a Ministerial Code
• Increased openness in tender awards and development planning processes

The Chief Minister expressed hope that Opposition parties would engage constructively with the Bill, saying: “I look forward to the debate in Parliament and hope that if there are ways to improve the Bill, we can work together to do so.”

Next Steps

The publication of the Bill marks an important step forward in Gibraltar’s fight against bribery and corruption. The Government will now engage with Opposition parties and stakeholders to refine the legislation before its passage through Parliament.