Five Embassies Call on Slovak Gov't to Continue Combating Corruption
Bratislava, December 9 (TASR) – Five foreign embassies in Slovakia – of Belgium, Canada, the Netherlands, United Kingdom and United States – have released a joint statement to mark the International Anti-Corruption Day (December 9), praising the Slovak Government for its effort in the fight against corruption and at the same time calling for further measures in support of transparency.
“Our Embassies welcome and acknowledge the important efforts the Slovak Government has taken over the past year to fight corruption and encourage the government to continue to implement concrete measures to promote transparency, combat fraud, and to ensure punishment of those who violate those rules,” reads the statement.
The embassies praised Slovakia as a leader in the Open Government Partnership, noting that it continues to promote transparency and public participation in government through adoption of an ambitious third National Action Plan.
They also welcomed the cooperation of the Slovak Government with the OECD on combating corruption and the establishment of the Department for the Prevention of Corruption at the Slovak Government Office. They further appreciated increased communication between the Government, business community, and civil society, in particular in creating more effective rules to protect whistleblowers.
“Ongoing public and expert discussion on reforms to asset declaration rules is also a positive step, and could help prevent conflicts of interest. The introduction of more standardised and transparent selection criteria for judicial candidates is another important measure,” stated the embassies.
The representation offices of the five countries stated that they stand ready to work in partnership with the Slovak Government and civil society to continue promoting good governance in Slovakia, drawing on lessons learned from their experience in confronting similar challenges in their own countries. At the same time they promised that they’re ready to support the Slovak Government’s reform efforts.
“Important challenges identified by the business sector and civil society include implementing ethical standards, making regulators independent, addressing public procurement challenges, and strengthening investigation and prosecution of corruption-related activities,” stressed the embassies.
“Citizens play a critical role by reporting corruption when they encounter it and holding officials accountable for their actions. The efforts of political leaders and law enforcement authorities, in partnership with active citizens, civil society, media, and the international community, can create a more fair and transparent society,” adds the statement.
