Ukraine faces a new challenge: fighting for democracy and preserving the independence of anti-corruption institutions
In Ukraine's current political landscape, tensions are escalating, raising concerns not only about external enemies but also about internal mechanisms that safeguard democracy. Recent months have seen significant shifts in domestic politics, particularly attempts to tighten control by the presidential office and weaken the independence of key anti-corruption bodies—NHBU and SAP. These developments have sparked intense debates among human rights advocates, opposition politicians, and international partners, as such actions threaten fundamental democratic values. Specifically, events surrounding the dismantling of independent anti-corruption agencies have reached the highest level of power. President Volodymyr Zelensky, responding to internal and external challenges, has been implementing policies to concentrate authority in his hands, complicating the work of other institutions, including the parliament and human rights organizations. Additionally, campaigns of intimidation target critics, accusing them of pro-Russian intentions or labeling them as puppet agents of Moscow. Meanwhile, the dissolution of NHBU and SAP was justified by a desire to 'cleanse' the anti-corruption system from possible Russian influence and unwarranted meddling. Former ministers and experts warn that these steps have profound implications for Ukraine's democracy and national security. The protests starting in 2022, which some interpret as attempts to regain control of the state, are seen by others as a pathway toward authoritarianism. The reactions of the United States and the European Union, expressing concern over the concentration of power in the presidential administration, highlight the gravity of the situation. EU diplomats emphasize that measures aimed at eliminating independent anti-corruption bodies undermine the country's credibility as a reliable partner. Civil society activists fighting to preserve democratic values warn that pursuing such policies could threaten not only internal stability but also Ukraine's international standing. Recent internal persecutions of anti-corruption activists and officials, accompanied by informational pressure and repression, further intensify the issue. Ukraine stands at a crossroads between safeguarding democratic principles and drifting toward authoritarian trends. Reform agendas or attempts to abolish independent institutions increase internal polarization and raise many questions about the country's future and its European course. Therefore, the fight to maintain the independence of key anti-corruption institutions has become one of the defining moments of Ukraine's modern history, shaping its future trajectory.