Regulatory and legal framework for the prevention of corruption in the activities of the National Police of Ukraine

Abstract

The article analyses the legal mechanisms and tools for combating corruption in the system of law enforcement agencies of Ukraine in the National Police. It is determined that corruption remains a serious problem for the democratic development of Ukraine and undermines public confidence in state institutions. This is especially true of law enforcement agencies, on whose activities public order and security depend. The author emphasises the importance of legal acts regulating the work of the police and implementing anti-corruption measures. The author outlines the key problems in anti-corruption activities, including insufficient internal control, imperfect legislative framework and the need to harmonise it with European standards. Particular attention is paid to the role of such documents as the Law of Ukraine ‘On Prevention of Corruption’ and the ethical rules of conduct for police officers, which lay the legal basis for the fight against corruption. The introduction of an electronic asset and income declaration system, control over conflicts of interest, and ethical behaviour of police officers are important tools for preventing abuse. Attention is focused on the role of civil society organizations and the media in shaping public control over the activities of law enforcement agencies. Public oversight and openness of the police are critical for increasing public trust and reducing corruption risks. It was determined that the basis for the formation of anti-corruption policy in the National Police is international standards, as well as laws of Ukraine, which determine the principles of corruption prevention. In particular, the role of special anti-corruption bodies that monitor the implementation of legislation and investigate corruption cases is important. Such cooperation between state institutions allows us to create a more effective and coordinated system of combating corruption. The author concludes that to effectively combat corruption, it is necessary not only to improve the legislative framework, but also to ensure its proper implementation, through training and raising the legal culture of police officers. Only through a comprehensive approach can we achieve a significant reduction in the level of corruption in the law enforcement system and increase its efficiency.