site.btaBulgaria Has Partially Implemented GRECO's Recommendations - Report

Bulgaria has fully implemented seven out of a total of 28 recommendations made by the Group of States Against Corruption (GRECO) of the Council of Europe. This is outlined in the first report assessing Bulgaria’s adherence to the recommendations issued three years ago aimed at preventing corruption and promoting integrity within government and law enforcement bodies.

The report states that 11 recommendations have been partially implemented, while 10 have not been implemented.

Legislative and political reforms have been taken, but have not yet yielded results. The report also mentions planned changes to the operations of the National Council for Combating Corruption and the procedure for selecting members of the counter-corruption commission. A methodology for assessing corruption risks in central government is being prepared, along with a draft code of conduct for public office holders. Plans are underway to introduce rules on incompatibility and verification concerning advisers to high-ranking government officials, the report says.

Data regarding members of political cabinets (names, positions, salaries) is still not publicly accessible. Improvements are needed in access to information and public consultations on the government’s legal acts. According to the assessment, Bulgaria has made progress in relation to anti-corruption legislation. The new lobbying legislation is still in the early stages of development, and it is recommended that the Bulgarian authorities are advised to finalize these reforms without further delay.

The report acknowledges that tangible steps have been taken to encourage the representation of women in the police force, and salaries, especially at the entry-level and junior ranks within the Ministry of Interior have been increased. Commissions and ethics experts have been appointed to provide guidance on integrity issues. Reporting violations related to integrity is now mandatory. Clear rules for receiving, reporting, and ensuring transparency of donations and sponsorships in the police have been established. The ethical code applicable to police duties has been amended to more thoroughly address integrity-related issues, including prohibiting the acceptance of gifts, benefits, or services that could influence the performance of official duties, the report says.

The 2023 Whistleblowing Act is seen as a positive development, with authorities encouraged to provide regular training on reporting violations and safeguarding whistleblowers. A new risk assessment methodology has been established, which will form the basis of a future strategy to combat corruption within Bulgaria's Ministry of the Interior.

However, more significant efforts are needed, including the appointment of senior officials in the Ministry as the Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General, through open competitions. The law also calls for addressing practical threats arising from the activities of former police officers after their departure from the service.

Further recommendations emphasize the need for integrity checks for police officers before their appointment, as well as regular integrity assessments throughout their careers.