The Commission hosts the third plenary of the EU Network Against Corruption

On 15 October, the European Commission hosted the third plenary meeting of the EU Network Against Corruption in Brussels. Launched in May 2023 as part of the European Commission's anti-corruption set of proposals, the EU Network brings together national authorities, civil society, researchers, EU agencies, and international organisations to foster collaboration, share good practices, and strengthen the fight against corruption across the EU.

A video message from Commissioner for Justice, Michael McGrath, opened the meeting, highlighting that strengthening the rule of law and combating corruption remains a key priority for the Commission.

In his opening remarks, Mr Michael Schmid President of Eurojust, stressed the role of Eurojust in facilitating work on cross-border corruption cases – where the key is working together, early on, while Ms. Elizabeth Andersen, Executive Director of the Basel institute, highlighted the economic benefits of effective Anti-Corruption measures.

The plenary started with an overview of the work carried out by the Commission in the last year, including the publication of the sixth Rule of Law Report and on the upcoming EU anti-corruption strategy. 

The network focused its discussions on the link between competitiveness – a key priority of the European Commission - and anti-corruption, in particular on possible avenues for EU anti-corruption policy to foster a more competitive business environment, attract investment, and promote sustainable economic growth across the EU. Moreover, a number of good practices and enablers in the fight against corruption were presented focusing on better measuring corruption cases, enhancing a culture of integrity through education or creating an enabling environment for civil society. Finally, key anti-corruption projects presented their findings and participants reflected how these could be put into practice on the ground, with all stakeholders involved. 

The outcomes of the third plenary will inform the work of the Commission, particularly in view of the upcoming EU anti-corruption strategy.