INTEGRITY AND CORRUPTION PREVENTION IN UKRAINE: CURRENT CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS FOR SOLUTIONS

Abstract

This article examines the current state of anti-corruption policy in Ukraine and the role of integrity as its value-based and legal foundation. The research highlights the relevance of these issues in the context of Ukraine’s European integration aspirations, post-war recovery, and the need to ensure public trust in state institutions. Despite the establishment of a specialized anti-corruption infrastructure, corruption remains a systemic challenge that undermines democratic development. Special attention is given to the growing importance of integrity under martial law, where increased public expenditures and international aid require enhanced transparency and accountability.
The study provides a comprehensive analysis of contemporary anti-corruption policy and assesses integrity as a fundamental principle of public service. Objectives include examining the legal framework (notably the Law of Ukraine “On Prevention of Corruption”), evaluating specialized anti-corruption institutions, and assessing international indicators to improve policy effectiveness. The methodology comprises systematic and institutional approaches, alongside a comparative analysis of 2023–2025 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) reports and sociological data.
Results demonstrate moderate but stable progress, with Ukraine’s CPI score reaching 36 points in 2025. While public perception of corruption remains high, direct corrupt interactions have decreased. Digitalization, electronic declarations, and public procurement systems have shown the most tangible preventive impact. However, risks such as political pressure and slow judicial processes persist.
The study concludes that further progress depends on ensuring institutional independence, strengthening accountability, promoting integrity education, and enhancing civic engagement. A value-oriented approach is essential for sustainable anti-corruption transformation and alignment with European governance standards.