OECD Warns Kyiv Over Law’s Impact on Anti-Corruption and Defense Investments in Ukraine
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has expressed serious concerns regarding recent legislative changes in Ukraine that affect the independence and functionality of the country's anti-corruption agencies.
Specifically, the attention is drawn to Bill No.
12414, which, upon its adoption, threatens to significantly undermine the autonomy of Ukraine’s specialized anti-corruption bodies such as NABU and SAP, thus jeopardizing Ukraine’s prospects for continued cooperation with OECD.
In a letter dated July 22, Julia Fromholz, a representative of the OECD, conveyed her 'deep concern' about the recent developments involving the anti-corruption agencies, emphasizing that the law could weaken Ukraine's commitment to its international obligations and hinder its efforts to join the organization.
She urged Kyiv and President Zelensky to veto the bill to prevent the erosion of independence of these vital institutions.
Fromholz warned that if such legislative decisions persist, Ukraine risks not only losing the opportunity to join OECD but also damaging its international reputation, especially among foreign investors and global partners who are considering long-term investments in Ukraine’s defense sector and infrastructure recovery.
European Union officials, even before the parliamentary vote, voiced concerns over the situation with NABU and SAP, stressing that these bodies are crucial for Ukraine’s reform agenda and must operate independently to fight corruption and maintain public trust.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Martha C.
expressed her apprehensions regarding the legislation’s approval, while newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister for European Integration Taras Kachka assured that Ukrainian authorities remain committed to anti-corruption reforms.
President Zelensky, following the signing of Law №12414, declared that Ukraine’s anti-corruption infrastructure would continue its work without Russian influence, aiming for transparency and stability.
Nonetheless, experts warn that such legislative measures could have long-term adverse effects on Ukraine’s international standing and its ability to attract foreign investments necessary for military and economic rebuilding.