“Cyprus has made significant progress in enhancing its legal framework to prevent corruption and promote integrity in the central government and the police”, states the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) in a report published on Tuesday 16 September.
However, “further reforms are still needed”.
Among the positive points concerning the government are the adoption of codes of conduct, the publication of the code of practice for the better implementation of the Law on the right of access to public sector information, the opening of a platform where draft legislation can be consulted and the publication of the guide on lobbying, which would nevertheless require more regular financial reporting.
Reform of the confidential advice mechanism, a review of the post-employment regime, reinforcement of the staffing at the Anti-Corruption Agency and improved public access to information are also called for.
In terms of law enforcement, GRECO welcomes the strengthening of the financial disclosure regime and the enhanced protection for whistleblowers.
The streamlining of oversight and accountability mechanisms must continue, and the gender balance in the police force remains to be improved.
The report also recommends greater transparency in the selection of the Chief and Deputy Chief of Police, as well as in all promotion and transfer procedures.
Information on the implementation of these recommendations is expected by 31 December 2026.
Link to the report: https://aeur.eu/f/igb (Original version in French by Véronique Leblanc)