print version

External independent evaluation completed: NABU's effectiveness confirmed

The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine has become the first law enforcement agency to successfully undergo an external independent evaluation of its effectiveness. The audit covered the period from March 2023 to November 2024 and confirmed NABU's prowess in exposing and investigating high-level corruption.

The evaluation was conducted by a commission of international experts appointed by the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine upon the recommendation of partner international organizations. The commission began its work in October 2024.

The findings highlight that the Bureau demonstrates high performance in detecting top-level corruption, has successful experience in international cooperation, and is implementing modern electronic tools, particularly the eCase system. The commission specifically noted the consistently low rate of acquittals and closed cases.

At the same time, the audit identified several systemic challenges that need to be addressed. These include the absence of a comprehensive development strategy, insufficient protection for whistleblowers, risks of information leaks, unresolved internal procedures, and inconsistencies in the Bureau’s organizational structure.

The commission also pointed to the lack of objective verification of publicly available data on performance results, a shortage of clear effectiveness indicators for analytical units, and limited monitoring of investigations in priority sectors.

Meanwhile, NABU has already begun working on implementing the key recommendations. Its focus includes whistleblower protection, strategic planning, internal control, and digital security. In particular, the Bureau has already:

  • initiated updates to policies on the protection of whistleblowers and confidential informants;
  • approved a Development Strategy through 2030;
  • updated procedures for evaluating the work of detectives and analysts based on clear KPIs.

Experts also emphasized external factors hindering the institution's development, such as the lack of autonomous wiretapping capabilities, an independent forensic unit, and necessary legislative mechanisms. Addressing these barriers would significantly enhance the Bureau’s effectiveness.

The commission also recommended legislative changes, including switching to an external evaluation of the Bureau’s effectiveness every two years instead of annually, and resolving issues related to jurisdiction and interagency coordination.

Special concern was expressed about legislative initiatives that could undermine the progress of anti-corruption reform. Specifically, draft law No. 12439 poses risks of allowing top officials to avoid arrest or the seizure of assets.

The external evaluation of NABU’s activities is mandated by the Law of Ukraine "On the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine" and is an important tool for ensuring transparency, strengthening public trust, and securing further international support and Ukraine’s European integration.

NABU's work in numbers (as of 31.12.2024):

  • NABU detectives registered thousands of criminal proceedings;
  • 1,275 individuals were brought to trial;
  • 274 individuals received guilty verdicts that have entered into legal force;
  • over UAH 2.5 billion was allocated to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities;
  • UAH 10 billion in damages was reimbursed to the state;
  • potential loss of tens of billions of hryvnias was prevented.

Read also