Ministry for Restoration of Ukraine presents anti-corruption programme

October 9, 2023

Denys Shmygal, Prime Minister of Ukraine

Photo: The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine

KYIV, 9 October 2023 – Ukraine's Ministry for Communities, Territories, and Infrastructure Development has unveiled its Anti-Corruption Programme for 2023-2025 – an initiative developed with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme, and generously funded by the Government of Japan.

The strategy for 2023-2025 includes corruption risks assessments and sets out the main principles of the ministry's anti-corruption work, along with strategic goals in the formation of departmental anti-corruption policy and measures aimed at achieving them.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister for the Reconstruction of Ukraine and Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development Oleksandr Kubrakov, Resident Representative of UNDP in Ukraine Jaco Сilliers and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Ukraine Matsuda Kuninori all spoke at the official presentation of the Anti-Corruption Programme. Afterwards, event participants joined in a panel discussion called "Transparent recovery: how to prevent corruption risks," and participated in workshops on corruption risk assessment and management.

In his opening remarks, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmygal said the State Anti-Corruption Programme consists of 1,700 actions across 15 areas, which includes plans to implement 63 new digital products that will significantly reduce opportunities for any misconduct.

“All ministries must approve their relevant anti-corruption programmes,” Shmygal said.  “These anti-corruption initiatives are to be one of the key directions of the Unified Reform Plan until 2027."

Oleksandr Kubrakov, Deputy Prime Minister for the Reconstruction of Ukraine and the Minister of Communities, Territories and Infrastructure Development emphasized the urgency of the Anti-Corruption Programme amidst Ukraine's reconstruction.

"Our ultimate aim is a rejuvenated, modern Ukraine," Kubrakov said. "Since the start of the) invasion, the Government has been tirelessly working towards the directives set by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal: to rebuild transparently and accountably, and free from corruption risks. This approach fosters trust among our international partners and investors, and resonates deeply with our citizens."

Jaco Cilliers, Resident Representative of UNDP in Ukraine, highlighted the ministry's central role in Ukraine's recovery and emphasized the importance of top-level commitment to battling corruption.

"The Ministry's anti-corruption programme serves as a strategic roadmap to boost its transparency and accountability," Cilliers said. "Their dedicated team has set a strong foundation for the nation's recovery. At UNDP, we stand steadfastly with Ukraine, championing these efforts and advocating for a brighter, corruption-free future for its people."

Matsuda Kuninori, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Ukraine, said it was now an opportune  time to intensify joint efforts against corruption in Ukraine.

"With the World Bank estimating Ukraine's recovery needs at $411 billion, we must ensure efficient management of all available funds,” Kuninori said.

“Moreover, beyond government and international donor funds, Ukraine's reconstruction also hinges on attracting private sector investments. However, corruption can deter businesses from investing in a country. Japan stands steadfastly with Ukraine, committed to bolstering its progress and supporting its path towards a more prosperous future.”

Media inquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org